Manufactured for the U.S. military from 1876-77 with a total production approximately 5,934. Offered here is an early production example, serial number 481. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 7 inch barrel and blue finish when it was shipped on July 12, 1875 and delivered to the U.S. Armory in Springfield, Massachusetts. "L" and "P" are stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face, "US" is marked on the butt, and the left grip panel has a faint cartouche. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder.

Fine, retaining 50% original blue finish with a smooth brown-gray patina on the balance. Some original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are also fine with high edge wear and some minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The John Fox Collection.