The accompanying factory letter indicates the revolver was one of 250 units sold to the U.S. Government and delivered to the U.S. inspector at the Colt factory on January 18, 1887. The Kopec letter confirms the manufacture date and authenticates the markings on the metal surfaces. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address, the frame has the three-line patent dates marking followed by "U.S.", and the David F. Clark sub inspection "DFC" stamp is located on the barrel, frame and cylinder. A "P" proof is stamped on the barrel and cylinder. The professional replacement grip has "DFC" on the bottom, a script cartouche on the right side and the date "1887" above a script letter cartouche on the left side. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder and barrel.

Fine. 40% original blue and generous traces of original case colors remain, otherwise an artificial blend of smooth brown patina on the forward three inches of barrel with replacement front sight. The professionally made modern replacement grip is very fine with some handling marks. Mechanically excellent.