Confirmed by the included Colt factory letter, this revolver was a display piece and prototype of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) special issue Python revolver kept by the Colt factory. The letter also confirms the caliber, 4 inch vent ribbed barrel, target sights, finish, checkered walnut grips, and gold etched BATF motifs of the sides of the barrel and frame. Complete with a Colt "wood grain" box with a Custom Shop end label numbered to the gun with the notation "Archives". The included 1982 dated packing list also confirms that the revolver was placed in the archive.

Near new in box, with only the slightest handling marks and traces of a very light cylinder drag line. The box is good with a taped end label and a few tears.