This revolver was manufactured in 1861. Master Engraver Gustave Young's shop was Colt's main engraving contractor in the period, and the revolver appears to have been engraved by Young himself. It certainly has the quality and style of Young. Note the bird head design among the scrolls ahead of the wedge on the left and the floral accents among the scrolls throughout. The hammer has his classic wolf head motif. The barrel has a dovetailed blade front sight and the one-line New York address. The frame has the stamped "COLTS/PATENT" marking. The cylinder has the stagecoach scene and is numbered "07862." However, the serial numbers on the other components are matching. The factory apostrophe marking used on revolver destined for factory engraving is by the serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The back strap is inscribed "Presented to Sergt. W.E. Henry./by Co. K. 17th Vt Vols./Sep 26th 1864." It was common for this section of the revolver to have a blank panel so that inscriptions like this could be added after they left the factory as needed. It comes in a hardwood case with a cap tin, eagle pattern pocket powder flask, iron bullet mold, oiler, and some lead balls. Wilbur E. Henry (1844-1893) of Berlin, Vermont, was a private in Company K of the 17th Regiment of Vermont Volunteer Infantry on July 15, 1864, and was promoted to first sergeant in Company K on August 22, 1864, and mustered out on July 15, 1865. General Griffin provided positive testimony on the service of the unit: "The Seventeenth Vermont bore an active and honorable part in Grant's campaign through the Wilderness and in the siege of Petersburg and the capture of Lee. It was composed of the best material, and was one of the regiments upon which I could always rely with perfect confidence, however difficult or dangerous the duty to be performed. It was a regiment which reflected great credit upon the State, and one of which the people of Vermont have a right to be proud." Some documents outlining Henry's service are included.

Fine with 50% original silver plating, smooth silver-gray patina on the balance, minor oxidation/pitting, crisp engraving and inscription, distinct cylinder scene and markings, and general mild wear. One of the frame pins is detached and stuck in the barrel lug. The grip is very fine and has a small amount of shrinkage, mild handling wear, some faint age cracks, some staining on the right side, and attractive natural tones and grain throughout. Mechanically fine. The relined case is very good and has mild age and storage related wear including a detached divider. The heavily pitted bullet mold is fair with dark patina overall. The flask is very good.