Colt only manufactured approximately 7,366 Model 1883 shotguns between 1883 and 1895. This example was manufactured in 1895 and features dual bead sights (mid bead absent) on the "COLTS PT F A MFG CO HARTFORD CT U S A" marked concave matte solid rib. 2 3/4 inch chambers, choked improved cylinder/improved cylinder with extractor. The action has light engraving with fine scroll patterns with gold-inlaid wire accents on the fences. The bottom of the action is marked in a banner: "PATENTED/AUG 22. SEP 19.1882" with the ribbon gold-inlaid wire bordered. The engraving patterns extend to the trigger guard, break lever and forearm hardware. The matching serial number is marked on the lower tang, water table, barrel flat, forearm, and forearm hardware. Additional features include double triggers, a tang mounted automatic safety with gold "SAFE" blue barrels with a thin gold-inlaid band around the breech end, and mounted with a multi-point checkered walnut splinter forearm with ebony forend insert and replacement pistol grip stock with a plastic grip cap and checkered plastic buttplate with maker's marks filed off. The length of pull is 14 1/4 inches. The factory letter lists this shotgun with 30 inch 12 gauge barrels, blue finish, wood stock, weight of 7 lb 14 oz and $150.00 worth of enhancements when shipped to Colt's San Francisco Agency, San Francisco on October 22, 1895.

Good as modified (the barrels have been shortened) with most of the blue finish remaining on the barrels. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth gray patina. All of the gold-inlay remains. The forearm has been refinished and overall the wood shows some minor handling marks and a small round wood filled repair on the left side at the front of the comb. The checkering on the forearm is crisp and it is sharp on the stock wrist. The markings and engraving are clear. Mechanically excellent.