Manufactured in 1877. The barrel is stamped with the two-line Hartford address on top and has the etched panel "COLT. D.A. 38" on the left side. The frame has the three-line patent dates marking, and the trigger guard is marked "38 CAL." London proofs are on the barrel. Matching serial numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard and back strap.

Very good. The barrel and grip straps retain 60% original blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. Traces of the etched panel remain. The refinish cylinder retains an unattractive touch applied blue with flaking on the balance. 90% original nitre blue remains on the hammer and trigger. 70% original case colors remain on the frame. There is some pitting. The grip is very fine with some minor handling marks and overall crisp recut checkering. The action cycles but the hammer does not hold at the half and full cock positions and trigger must be manually reset after being pulled.