A "4" is stamped on the left side of the back strap, and "3" is stamped on the face of the cylinder, left side of the trigger guard, and right side of the hammer. There are no other identifying markings. The engraving consists of traditional scrollwork. It has dovetailed blade and notch sights and a lanyard loop on the butt whose base unscrews for use as an ejector. U.S. records indicate a little more than 1,000 revolvers of this basic design were purchased for the U.S. military in September 21, 1861, from George Raphael & Company. Raphael was reportedly a friend of President Lincoln's and supplied both revolvers and swords to the Union Army. An engraved example like this was likely owned by a private individual in Europe. These unusual centerfire revolvers are presumed to have been manufactured in France since the design was patented by Pidault and Cordier in France in 1860 based in part on an earlier revolver designed and patented in Paris by Washington Carroll Tevis, a West Point Graduate born in Philadelphia, who lived a rather adventurous life as a soldier of fortune serving the U.S., Britain, Fenian Brotherhood, France, Egypt, Papal States, and Turkey. Provenance: Gillespie collection.

Very good plus overall with mottled gray patina, some minor pitting, and light overall wear. The grips are very good and have mild edge wear and light scratches throughout. Mechanically excellent. This is a scarce engraved example of an already rarely seen early centerfire revolver.