Gun A was manufactured in 1860, and Gun B dates to 1862. Each of the revolvers display Gustave Young style engraving and have matching serial numbers with "I" markings below them. This was used by the factory to designate the special grips. Among the engraving patterns on gun A is the eagle head motif on the left side of the barrel seen on some Young engraved Colts and the dog/wolf head motif on the hammer also favored by Young. The barrel has "Saml Colt" hand engraved on top, and the left side of the frame has "COLTS/PATENT" also in hand engraving. Both of these features are often found on engraved presentation revolvers. Gun B also has Young style engraving including a nearly identical hammer motif and matching designs on the sides of the back strap, but has slightly differing scrollwork. The top of the barrel has the same marking as A, but the frame has the standard stamped "COLTS/PATENT" marking. The back strap of both revolvers has "Lieut. C. G. Attwood" in script, and the front straps have "Boston, Mass." Similar inscriptions have been seen on swords owned by Attwood during his service. These markings were added to gun B at a later date. Both revolvers have dovetailed blade front sights, standard hammer notch rear sights, stage coach hold up scenes on the cylinders, smooth one piece grips, and are silver plated. The set has been assembled with a hardwood case with English fitted interior containing a key, lead bullets and balls, package of Colt cartridges, two cap tins, a dual cavity bullet mold, eagle powder flask, and L shaped combination tool. Also included is a modern dime bag from the U.S. Mint and extensive consignor research on Cornelius G. Attwood (1836-1888) of Company C in the 25th Regiment of Massachusetts Infantry including copies of original documents relating to his life. At the age of 25, he enlisted for three months as a second lieutenant in the 3rd Rifle Battalion organized in Worcester County. After his initial service, he raised a company for the 25th Regiment and served as its captain in battles at Roanoke Island, Newbern, Goldsboro, Drewry's Bluff and Cold Harbor among others. The regiment was merged into the 18th Corps and earned the name "Heckman’s Star Brigade." They were known as one of the finest units in the Union army. He was promoted to Major on October 29, 1862 and was wounded during the famous charge during the Battle of the Crater. Due to his injuries, he left the service in August, 1864, and given the rank of brevete colonel of volunteers. He became a businessman after the war, but in 1876 he was appointed inspector general of the state militia by Governor Rice and served in that position for three years during which he re-organized the states militia system. He was also a prominent member in the Grand Army of the Republic.

Very good. 50% of the original silver plating remains on the grip frame. There are traces of original finish on the barrel and frame, and the balance has been cleaned to bright. The undersize replacement grip is very good with some minor age cracks. The engraving patterns and markings are crisp, and the action functions excellently. The relined case is very good with mild storage wear. The accessories are fair.

See description in A.

Very good with added recut spurious inscription (to match other revolver). The barrel retains 60% of the silver plating and traces remain on the frame and cylinder. A gray patina is on the balance. The grip frame retains 30% of the silver plating. The brass and silver have an aged patina. The grip is fine with natural variations and some slight age cracks. The engraving patterns and markings are mostly clear aside from the cylinder scene.