This Colt Lightning was shipped to Wexell & DeGress in Mexico City on August 13, 1883, according to the included factory letter, and left the factory with a blue finish in .38 caliber with a five inch barrel. It was subsequently engraved and refinished by Wexell & DeGress and now features punch dot and engraving designs. The cylinder and ejector housing have been gold washed while the majority has been nickel plated and some small parts have a niter blue finish. The top of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address, and the left side has the etched panel caliber markings. The frame has the three-line patent markings on the left side, and the trigger guard is marked with "38 CAL" on the left rear. It has a half moon blade front sight and the standard frame groove rear sight, bullseye ejector head, and smooth mother of pearl grips. The included survey lists the details of the gun and is marked "Return to: Bruce E. Skinner" near the bottom. The revolver also includes an English hardwood case with green lined interior that contains a screw driver, oiler, cleaning rod, and cartridge block with twenty-three .38 Short Colt cartridges. The inside of the lid has a Colt Firearms label with the Hartford and Pall Mall addresses.

Very fine as period retailer (Wexell & DeGress) engraved. 98% of the nickel plating and bright niter blue remain along with 75% of the gold wash. The are some light scratches and minor marks scattered throughout and a slight spot of pitting just above the left grip panel. The grips are very good with a slightly aged appearance and some small chips along the edges. The designs and markings are clear. Mechanically rotates but is out of time and needs minor work. The case is very good with a crack in the lid and otherwise only minor storage type wear.