Manufactured in 1880 for the U.S. Government and subsequently Colt factory reworked. The top of the barrel has the one-line Hartford address, the frame has the three-line patent dates marking followed by "US," and the David F. Clark sub inspection "DFC" stamp is located on the underside of the barrel, bottom of the frame, bottom of the right grip panel, and side of the cylinder. A "P" proof mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel near the "DFC" marking and side of the cylinder. The right side of the trigger guard has a Colt factory ampersand rework mark. Matching serial number "55048" is found on frame and trigger guard, and the correct partial serial number "5048" is found on the barrel. The number "54860" is on the back strap, and the number "4860" is on the cylinder. The grip has restamped script letter cartouches on both sides and the date "1880" on the left side. The accompanying factory letter states revolver was originally shipped on April 21, 1880, to the U.S. government inspector at the Colt factory. Provenance: Mel Torme Collection.

Fine as assembled (see above), retaining 70% of the blue finish with the balance thinning to a gray. There is an area of gray mixed with minor pitting on the barrel. 75% vivid case colors remain on the hammer and frame. The modern replacement grip is near mint showing the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent.