The accompanying factory letter confirms the 5 inch barrel in .41 caliber, nickel plating, grip material, factory engraving and ejector. It was shipped to B. Kittredge & Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio, on May 9, 1878 as part of a 5 unit shipment. The profuse factory engraving consists of floral scrolls and zig zag line motifs. A wolf head is engraved on both sides of the hammer. The left side of the barrel has the etched "COLT D.A. 41" panel, the top of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address, and the left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The ejector rod has a bulls eye head. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard and back strap.

Very fine, retaining 80% plus original nickel finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The front sight is a non-factory custom replacement. The etched panel is clear. The grip is also very fine showing minor handling marks and attractive grain. Mechanically excellent.