Manufactured in 1871, the first year of production. This example features a factory engraving on 80% of the surfaces. A beautiful floral scroll engraving on a punch dot background is featured on the barrel, rear sides of the frame and top of the back strap. Other engraved motifs featured on the revolver include cross hatching with dots, crossed ribbon bands, wavy lines, dots and zig zag lines. The top of the barrel is marked "COLTS HOUSE PISTOL/HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." flanked by Maltese crosses surrounded by a double lined border. The revolver has been identified as being engraved by famed Master Engraver L.D. Nimschke by R.L. Wilson in the book "L.D. Nimschke Firearms Engraver" on page xxxx. The barrel, cylinder and both grip panels are numbered to the gun. The felt lined case has a cartridge block holding 10 rounds and a key.

Fine. The barrel and frame retain 60% original nickel plating. The remaining replated metal surfaces retain 95% of the gold plating. The engraving on the cylinder has been recut. The shrunken grips are fine with a few long age cracks. Mechanically excellent. The relined case is good with handling/storage marks and high spot wear on the lining.