The back strap is inscribed "PRESENTED TO/Col. E.A.L. Roberts./by his Friends, Oct. 2nd 1862" in alternating fonts. Lieutenant Colonel Edward A.L. Roberts (1829-1881) is most famous as the inventor of the "oil well torpedo" in 1865 and fracking and co-founder of the Roberts Petroleum Torpedo Company. His invention was inspired by witnessing torpedoes during the Battle of Fredericksburg. His technique involved lowering nitroglycerin explosives into the wells and then filling the wells with water to increase the flow of oil. He was the lieutenant colonel of the 28th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry. He commanded the unit from December 14, 1862, to January 2, 1863, and command of the unit during the ill-fated assaults on Marye's Heights at Fredericksburg. He resigned following the affair but was instead cashiered on January 12, 1863, for "resigning in the face of the enemy." The serial number of this revolver dates to 1863 according to Colt and the "Blue Book Pocket Guide for Colt Dates of Manufacture" by Wilson. As collectors know, serial number ranges aren't always indicative of the year a firearm was produced. The barrel has a nickel silver front sight blade and the "-ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-" address. The frame has "COLTS/PATENT" on the left. The cylinder has the classic Naval Battle of Campeche roll scene. The wedge is numbered "038" and "5761" with the latter lined out. The cylinder and grip are marked "1038." The barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap have the full serial number along with "2" markings either above and below the serial numbers.

Very good with strong traces of original finish in the protected areas, evidence the barrel had been mostly polished bright at one time, mild oxidation overall, aged patina on the brass, and general mild overall wear. The grip is fine and has mild dings and scratches, light edge wear, and most of the varnish remaining. Mechanically fine.