Using the most liberal statistics only 2,500 1st Generation Colt SAAs of the 357,800 manufactured were factory engraved, and the overwhelming majority of those 2,500 were done in the twilight years of production. Thus, an emphasis must be placed on the rarity of factory documented black powder single actions. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel (currently 4 3/4 inches) in .45 caliber, nickel finish, wood stocks and factory engraving when shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co. of St. Louis, Missouri, on August 23, 1886. The fine factory engraving consists mostly of broad floral scrollwork on a punch dot background along with zig-zag line borders and flourishes. The recoil shield and loading gate are engraved with a fan pattern. The cylinder chambers feature a spray and star motif rarely encountered in factory engraved patterns. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top. The ejector rod has a half moon type head. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line patent dates information, and the left side of the trigger guard is marked "45 CAL." The barrel is numbered to a different gun: "7199." Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and cylinder ("1132"). Comes with a George E. Robbins of Miles City, Montana Holster rig. The Robbins maker marking appears on the front of the holster, and the cartridge belt holds 10 rounds of 45 Long Colt. Located in eastern Montana, the legendary cattle town Miles City was the "end of the trail" for many Texas longhorn cattle drives in the 1890s and was also the home of George E. Robbins who co-founded the saddlery Robbins & Lenoir in 1891. In 1894 the partnership was dissolved and Robbins ran a saddlery under his own name until 1902.

Fine, retaining 70% original nickel finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The engraving is crisp. The front sight has been repositioned on the shortened barrel. The slightly shrunken grips are also fine with a tiny chip near the bottom, a few typical hairline age cracks and minor handling marks. Mechanically needs work as hammer only has three clicks. The holster rig is very good with the tongue having been repositioned during the time of use and minor wear. It is not often that we catalog antique factory engraved SAAs.