John A. Kopec states that 171 replacement frames were purchased by the Ordnance Department from Colt between 1874 and 1891, and other revolvers refurbished by Colt for the Ordnance Department in 1895, 1896, and 1901-1903 may also have had frames replaced at the factory (see pages 242, 476, and 480 of "A Study of the Colt Single Action Revolver"). The only serial number is "16848" on the trigger guard which has a "J" below it. The number dates to 1875 and that revolver was returned to the factory for refurbishing in 1901 per the accompanying factory letter which states that the original records for that serial number were lost or destroyed many years ago but the revolver was returned for refurbishing and subsequently reshipped. It states that: "The refurbishing consisted of replacement of worn parts, exterior refinishing and reassembly without attention to matching part numbers." The letter verifies the caliber and blue finish with the barrel length and grips as "Not Listed" and that it was shipped as 1 of 50 to the U.S. Government commanding officer at Manila in the Philippines on November 6, 1901. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address. "45 COLT" is on the left side, and the left side of the frame is marked with the three line, three patent dates. The bottom of the left grip panel and the rear face of the cylinder are stamped "R.A.C." Blade front and frame notch rear sights. The ejector rod head is a small replacement. Blue finish with casehardened frame and hammer and fitted with a smooth one piece walnut grip.

Fine as factory refurbished. The revolver retains 40% plus of the blue finish concentrated on the top of the back strap and in protected areas with a smooth mottled dark brown patina on the balance. The frame and the loading gate have 30% subdued case colors with the balance a smooth silver gray patina. The grip is also fine with some minor lower edge wear and a few minor dings and handling marks. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. There is an old period applied coat of protective varnish applied overall