Only an estimated 1,100 of these revolving shotguns were manufactured c. 1860-1863 split between 10 gauge (.75 caliber) large frame and 20 gauge (.60 caliber) small frame versions and multiple configurations. An estimated 600 were manufactured in 10 gauge ranking them among the rarest Colt percussion firearms. In the days when most shotguns were single or double barrel, the five-shot Colt revolving shotguns offered a significant amount of firepower. The barrel is numbered "122" on the bottom and has a small nickel-silver bead front sight and under-rib with the cleaning rod secured in two ferrules and a walnut forearm with silver plated forend cap. The frame has "COL. COLT HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." marked in the sight groove on the top strap, the serial number on the bottom, a casehardened hammer, and the patent marking on the left. It is fitted with an attractive scroll pattern trigger guard. The cylinder has the patent marking in one of the flutes. The nicely figured buttstock has multi-point checkering, "COLT" stamped behind the lower tang, steel buttplate, and brass rod extension under the buttplate. There is a sling swivel eye on the rear ferrule but no corresponding rear stud or swivel.

Fine with 50% blue on the frame and plum brown finish on the barrel along with strong traces of original case colors vibrant in flashes, with a smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, repaired/modified trigger guard bow. The wood show an old coat of varnish slightly bent escutcheon on the right, distinct checkering, beautiful figure on the butt, and some minor dents and scratches. Mechanically fine. This is a very attractive example of one of Colt's most powerful percussion firearms.