According to an included letter from Mounted Police Research & Consulting, a British Columbia firm specializing in the history of the RCMP and its precursor organizations, this revolver was part of a 150 piece order shipped to Thomas Birkett & Son of Ottawa, Ontario, on August 25, 1914, destined for the Royal North West Mounted Police. Originally designated the North West Mounted Police and earning the Royal designation for participation in the 2nd Boer War, the RNWMP was one of the precursors to the modern RCMP, responsible for law enforcement across large stretches of Western Canada during the westward expansion and the Klondike Gold Rush. No records could be found on the exact use for the revolver. The traditional Colt markings and features are present, including the "NEW SERVICE 455 ELEY" mark on the left side of the barrel, with the addition of a conjoined "MP" stamp on the butt and "RNWMP 1.1.8.3" on the back strap; the latter marking is hand struck, which the letter notes as being traditional Mounted Police procedure. Consignor states it was purchased from John Hawk.

Very good, with 50% of the original blue finish on the frame and barrel, showing a gray patina on the grip straps, areas of brown patina, mild spotting, scattered handling marks and bright edge wear, and refinished cylinder. The grips are also very good, with some minor chipping around the interior screw holes, a bit of bending in the left panel, and mild exterior dings and scratches. The box is fair, with edge wear and a lost inner flap. Mechanically excellent.