16,000 First Model New Line 22 revolvers were manufactured in the 1870s with short fluted cylinders and visible cylinder stop slots. This example has the etched panel on the left side of the barrel "COLT NEW 22", as well as the two line address on top of the barrel. The sides of the frame and cylinder flats are decorated with a floral scroll design, while the top of the barrel has a simple wavy line design, and the top strap has a simple wavy line and dot design. Nickel finish, blade front and frame notch rear sights and fitted with the highly desirable copper DeGress grips with the horse head and floral designs. The upper left side has the two line patent date and there is a shield near the bottom inscribed "G.W.G./Troy, N.Y./Sept. 28, 1876". Francis DeGress of Bloomfield, New Jersey, patented his method for molded copper "pistol handles" treated with acid and then gilded with silver in 1874.

Fine. The revolver retains 70% original nickel finish with a smooth gray patina on the cylinder and 60% of the brass exposed on the frame. The grips are also fine with an attractive original copper color. The etched panel, markings and engraving are clear. The action is excellent.