Manufactured in the 1880s. This example features a rare and extensive factory floral and scroll engraving along with a bird panel scene on the side plate. It has the two-line Merwin, Hulbert rib legend, "38 CAL" marked on the left side of the frame, and bird head grip. Matching serial numbers are on the grip frame, cylinder and barrel. Nickel plated with the exception of the gold plated cylinder and casehardened hammer, trigger and trigger guard. A presentation inscription is featured on the grip straps: "PRESENTED to HARRY ALAMAN June 13 85" on the back strap and "By N&WRR Employees" on the front strap. The extra 2 3/4 inch barrel in .38 caliber is factory engraved and numbered "698" (just four digits way from the frame serial number). Based in Roanoke, Virginia, Norfolk and Western Railway operated from 1838 to 1982 and was famous for manufacturing its own line of steam locomotives and hopper cars. N&W was the largest Confederate railroad and played a vital logistical role in the movement of wartime supplies for the Confederacy. Period resources identify Harry Alaman as a "master boilermaker" in the railway service who retired from the Pennsylvania railroad system in 1914. His affiliation with the N&W remains unknown at this time. The June 1885 date in the inscription, however, exactly corresponds to when Alaman entered service as foreman of the boiler ship with Pittsburgh, Cincinnati & St. Louis Railway. Perhaps this revolver was a parting gift from Alaman's former employer N&W in June 1885 when he began work with the Pennsylvania railroad system. During the Civil War Alaman served three years in Company H, 76th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry.

Very fine. 97% original nickel remains on the barrel and 90% original nickel remains on the frame with a smooth gray patina on the non-factory, period inscribed grip strap. The cylinder retains 30% original gold plating mostly in the flutes, otherwise most of the nickel remains. The engraving is crisp. 95% plus original case colors remain on the hammer and traces of original case colors remain on the trigger and trigger guard. The grips are excellent with minimal handling marks and highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically needs work as the cylinder does not lock and the hammer does not hold at the half cock position. The case is good with worn exterior and torn lining. The extra barrel retains 98% plus original nickel. An interesting presentation inscribed, factory engraved Merwin, Hulbert DA that will bring added dimension to any American antique collection.