Manufactured in 1878, the first year of production. The barrel has the scarce "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. DEPOT 14 PALL MALL LONDON" address and is chambered in .450 Boxer. The trigger guard is marked "45 CAL/B." Only 1,653 Model 1878s were manufactured in .450 Boxer with a 5 1/2 inch barrel and blue finish per Don Wilkerson in "Colt's Double-Action Revolver" (pg. 354). London proofs are stamped on the underside of the barrel and behind each cylinder flute. The cylinder and both grip panels are numbered to the gun (right grip panel number faint). The partitioned case features a Colt London paper label on the interior of the lid and contains an added cartridge block holding 28 rounds of .450 caliber, cleaning rod, oiler, and tool.

Very fine, retaining 70% plus bright original high polish blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance mainly on the barrel. The grips are excellent with a few minor handling marks and crisp checkering. The hammer fails to catch at full cock when operated in single action mode, but in double action operation the revolver functions fine. The case is very good with minor handling/storage marks and typical high spot wear on the lining.