Manufactured in 1879 as a "overrun" revolver. As defined by Kopec and Fenn, "overruns" were "the result of a purposeful overproduction of military component parts, which were manufactured to assure a consistent supply of usable parts in quantities which would satisfy the then-current military contract." Unused U.S. Ordnance sub-inspected components were assembled by Colt and sold on the civilian market. It has a Henry Nettleton inspected frame that lacks "US" marking as commonly found on "overruns." The top of the barrel has the one-line Hartford address, the frame has the three-line patent dates marking, and the trigger guard is marked "45 CAL." Belgian "star/R" proofs are stamped on the barrel, frame and cylinder along with a Liege proof on the cylinder. The left side of the grip is stamped "D 15" followed by a grouping three stamped circles. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel.

Very good plus, retaining 25% of the original blue finish in and around the protected areas, otherwise a mixture of smooth brown and gray patinas with pitting. The grip is fine with high edge wear and minor dings and scratches. Mechanically needs work as hammer does not hold in any of the four notches.