The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a "soft" finish which indicates the revolver was left in the white for engraving outside the factory, .45 caliber chambering and barrel length and type of stocks not listed when shipped to Hartley & Graham of New York City on February 17, 1883. The revolver features near full coverage bold scrollwork on a punch dot background. The style and quality of engraving indicate that it was probably the work of L.D. Nimschke or his shop. Nimschke was one of the foremost 19th century American firearms engravers and one of the primary non-factory engravers of Colt Single Action revolvers. This SAA would have certainly made for a stylish sidearm for the Easterner heading west to fulfill cowboy aspirations. By the 1880s, promises of cheap land and prosperity lured many East Coast natives to migrate westward, made easier by the transcontinental railroad. The barrel, which has been period shortened to 4 3/4 inches, has the one-line Hartford address. The frame has the three-line patent dates marking on the left side. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "45 CAL." Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. Provenance: The John Fox Collection