The factory letter that accompanies the revolver states that it was shipped to Lt. Col. G.D. Ramsey at Washington Arsenal on June 20, 1862 as part of a shipment of 1000 revolvers. The letter states that the revolver has standard blue finish with brass trigger guard and wood stocks. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard Colt barrel address. The left side of the frame has the two-line "COLT'S/PATENT" marking. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene. The full serial number is located on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number, "4819" is stamped on the cylinder. All of the serial number markings are original and matching. The letters "P.B." are stamped on the left side of the barrel lug and on the inside of the grip strap. The significance of these markings is unknown. Faint Ordnance inspection stamps are visible on the stock heels, and single letter Ordnance "S" and "C" inspection marks are stamped on the barrel, cylinder, trigger guard and back strap.

Very good. The revolver shows the moderate wear expected of a weapon that was received by the Ordnance Department in early 1862 and probably issued immediately and carried throughout the Civil War. The revolver has been lightly cleaned and has a smooth, gray, aged patina. About half of the roll engraved cylinder scene remains. The cylinder pins are battered and the percussion nipples and rear of the cylinder face show considerable wear. The trigger screws are battered, and the barrel is loose. The brass trigger guard has an attractive age patina with moderate handling wear. The stocks have an old varnished finish and show moderate wear. The Ordnance inspection marks are visible but faint. A solid example of an important Civil War cavalry weapon that clearly was used in action.