As a factory engraved example, this Peacemaker is reportedly one of 388 factory engraved Colt SAAs in the 1-164100 serial number range with a 4 3/4 inch barrel in .45 LC and out of the 388 only 18 had a nickel finish and wood stocks, per the authors of "The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver 1873-1895" (page 333). The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped to E.C. Meacham Arms Co. of St. Louis, Missouri, on November 30, 1886 with a 4 3/4 inch barrel in .45 caliber, nickel finish, factory engraving, and wood stocks. This shipment was for 5 guns. The revolver is listed by serial number in the "Factory Engraved" section of Keith Cochran's "The Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Vol. 2" on page 151, but with the grips listed as "pearl" and shipping date listed as "November 3, 1886." Colts were used both as status symbols and tools of protection, and this example combines both prestige and power when it arrived at the Gateway to the West. The engraving is consistent with the work of famed Cuno Helfricht Shop and is mostly floral scrollwork on a punch dot background along with fan motifs, zig-zag lines, and wavy lines. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top, the frame has the three-line patent date markings, and matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Very good having the appearance of a "frontier issued" weapon, proving not all art hangs on the wall, with traces of original nickel finish on and around the hammer and front sight. The engraving is crisp overall. The refinished replacement grip is also very good with some minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A documented factory engraved Colt SAA with all the look associated with a frontier gun.