As explained in the accompanying research letter from Charles Pate, noted author and military firearms historian, and the period U.S. Army Chief of Ordnance records (photocopies) from the National Archives, this rare U. S. Cavalry revolver is clearly documented as one of six Schofields issued to the State of West Virginia on July 8, 1896, under order of supplies number 4295. The revolver is listed by serial number in U.S. Chief of Ordnance's office correspondence related to a February 1898 inquiry from the West Virginia Adjutant General requesting the serial numbers of arms that had been issued to the state. Accountability for the state's arms had been poorly executed and the general was attempting to recover missing arms. Ordnance records show the State of West Virginia was issued 98 Schofield revolvers from September 21, 1877 to February 1897. "U.S." is marked on the butt, the military inspector proof marks "W" and "P" are stamped on the rear cylinder face, with "E" and "P" stamped on the underside of the barrel. The cylinder and barrel are matching numbered to the gun. Perhaps a West Virginia officer's addition, the wonderful 19th century period pearl grips were obviously made for this very gun as their fit to the frame is flawless. Also included in the documentation are a black and white photograph of the gun and its descriptive inventory notecard, both from the collection of Dr. H. Shepard "Shep" Rowland. The notecard shows his purchase of this 2nd Model Schofield in early 1962 for the grand sum of $150.00! The revolver remained in Dr. Rowland's collection for over fifty years until his passing in Summer 2015.

Very fine. The barrel and cylinder retain strong traces of original bright blue finish in the flutes and sheltered areas, and the frame retains 40% original bright blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. Excellent original case colors remain on the hammer. The pearl grips are excellent with highly attractive fire colors. Mechanically excellent in all respects. A desirable U.S. Schofield rarely encountered as listed by serial number in America's historical records. Even the most advanced S&W or U.S. martial collections lack a documented Schofield. A must-have for a true S&W or U.S. Militaria collector!