This is an excellent example of a very desirable medium frame Mauser Model 1878 revolver chambered in the scarce 9 mm cartridge. These early Mauser designed revolvers are very scarce today as they were only produced for a short time before being replaced by the Model 1896 semi-automatic Broomhandle pistol. These revolvers were collector-named a "Zig-Zag" due to the zig-zag type slots on the cylinder. These slots were actually an integral part of the function of the revolver as they were designed to rotate the cylinder during firing. Two other unique/distinguishing features are the early "ring-type" cylinder latch located ahead of the frame as well as a safety latch on the lower left side of the frame that engages and locks the cylinder to keep it from rotating when on safe. The top of the barrel rib is roll engraved "GEBR.MAUSER & CIE OBERNDORF A/N. WURTTEMBERG.1878.PATENT". The revolver has the later style round-butt with the two piece hard rubber grips with the floral pattern on both sides. The frame lug is serial number "1075," and the matching number is on the rear of the cylinder, barrel lug, and on the underside of the ring latch "75". Although well manufactured and reliable, the Mauser Model 1878 was expensive to manufacture and had limited commercial sales with matching examples being very rare.

Very fine with 75% of the bright original high polish blue finish still remaining overall with finish loss on the grip straps, sides of the cylinder and trigger guard bow. The hammer retains 90% of its case colors. The smaller parts retain 25% of their heat blued finish. The grips are in very fine condition with nice, distinct floral and bird pattern on the sides. Mechanically excellent.