The letter confirms the configuration, factory engraving, grip, and that it was shipped to Tyler Davidson & Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio, on October 3, 1861. Cincinnati was a hot spot of the abolitionist movement before the war and an important depot during the war. The back strap appears to have faint traces of an inscription. The revolver has Gustave Young style engraving on most of the metal surfaces. One of the most interesting designs in the engraving patterns is the Indian head motif ahead of the wedge on the left side of the barrel. Young is well-known for placing animal heads among his scrollwork, especially eagles and dogs, but human faces are far less seen. A similarly located Indian head of differing design is seen on the Young engraved 1851 Navy pictured on page 69 of "The Book of Colt Engraving" by R. L. Wilson. Also note the similar engraving on the side of the loading lever. The author notes: "The Indian head motif is a rarity. . ." Many of Young's engraved Colt's have the "COLTS/PATENT" marking engraved as is the case on this example. The revolver also has a blade front sight, "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT HARTFORD CT-" barrel address, matching serial numbers (most with the "I" marking), and the standard cylinder scene. It comes in a modern case fitted to the gun with compartments holding the included combination tool, powder flask, Colt's patent bullet mold, small cap tin, and several lead bullets.

Very good. The iron has traces of original finish in the protected areas, most visible on the lower barrel flats near the rear of the loading lever, and otherwise gray patina, spots of light pitting, and scattered minor dings and scratches. The grip frame retains 20% of the original silver plating, primarily in the area protected by the trigger guard bow, and fairly light patination of the exposed brass. The grip is fine and has age cracks, natural aged orange tones, visible Schreger lines on the butt, and minor edge wear. Mechanically excellent and has crisp designs and markings aside from the cylinder scene and a possibly faded inscription on the back strap. The relined case is good with some compression on the lining, a few cracks in the wood, and general storage wear. The accessories are fine or better.