Only 7,000 of these revolvers are estimated to have been manufactured in the early 1870s. They are the direct predecessors of the Colt Single Action Army. This example was manufactured in 1871, the first year of production, and has the low three-digit serial number "265" on the barrel, faint number on cylinder, cylinder pin, frame, and Navy pattern grip straps and written in the back strap mortise of the grip. "20" is marked on the loading gate. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight, "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-." and an integral notch rear sight.

Good. Most of the steel exhibits a mix of gray and brown patina along with some spots of minor pitting and traces of blue finish on the rear of the otherwise refinished cylinder. The grip frame has aged patina. The cylinder scene is mostly worn away, but the other markings are distinct. The grip is fair with a noticeable spliced vertical repair on the left panel and chipping on the left and mild edge wear on the right. Mechanically functions fine, but is slightly loose.