Manufactured in 1897, the included factory letter with this revolver lists shipment to T.M. Roberts, which is almost certainly a reference to T.M. Roberts' Supply House located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A full page advertisement in the Minneapolis newspaper "The Representative" from 13 October 1897 claims that the previous month the firm sold over 700 guns, and that they have thousands of firearms on hand. It is likely that much of the firms sales were to clients in the American west or those that would soon be heading there, and it is likely this revolver shared a similar fate. It has standard markings including the desirable "COLT D.A. 38" etched panel on the left of the barrel. It is fitted with a blade front sight and sighting groove on top of the frame. It is fitted with a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts in ovals at the tops. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as the previously mentioned shipping information. Includes two photographs that may be of T.M. Roberts, as well as a T.M. Roberts marked order envelope.

Fine, showing all the typical signs of a revolver that made its way to the American west, retaining 40% of the original nickel finish and the balance a smooth grey patina. The acid etched panel is lightly visible. The grips are very good with moderate wear and scattered handling marks, typical of a working gun. Mechanically excellent.