The accompanying factory letter confirms the highly desirable 4 inch barrel in .44 caliber and nickel plating as well as shipped on April 25, 1882 and delivered to Hartley & Graham of New York City. This was a shipment for 10 guns of the same type. According to research presented by Don Wilkerson in his book "Colt's Double-Action Revolver, Model of 1878," Colt manufactured only 289 of these revolvers with the desirable 4 inch ejectorless barrel in .44-40 WCF caliber and plated in nickel (page 266). Whether on the hip of a lawman or under the counter of a storekeeper's shop, these Sheriff's model Colt DAs were at the forefront of taming the wilds in growing cities or the western frontier, as well as all manner of ruffians and outlaws. Today these Sheriff's Model 1878s hold a special place in the hearts of collectors, and offered here is a fine example. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top and the desirable "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" etched panel on the left side. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "44 CF." The cylinder is numbered to the gun. The matching assembly number "60" appears on the grip frame and loading gate.

Fine, retaining 60% plus original nickel finish with a mottled gray patina associated with a period working gun on the balance. The etched panel is lightly legible. The grips are good; moderately worn from spending years in use. Mechanically fine.