Manufactured circa 1876-1877. Offered here is an early model with bird's head butt, open top, scoop type cylinder flutes and wedge in front of the cylinder pin housing below the barrel. The three digit serial number ("405") is marked on the right side of the grip frame. Matching assembly numbers ("616") are found on the grip frame (left side), right grip panel, cylinder and barrel lug. The frame is marked "MERWIN, HULBERT & CO. N.Y./POCKET ARMY" on the left side and “CALIBRE/WINCHESTER" followed by "1873" (for caliber 44 WCF) on the right side. The left side of the barrel has the two-line address/patent dates marking.

Excellent, retaining 97% original nickel finish showing some aging on side plate and right rear frame. Visible original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard, and visible original fire blue remains on the trigger. The grips are also excellent with minimal handling evidence and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.