The included factory letter (copy) confirms the serial number, gauge, barrel length, finish, stock, original weight, and August 5, 1886 date of shipment as a single item to Howe & Jacobs. The letter further notes that the shotgun was listed as a Grade 8 at the time of shipment with no explanation as to what type of ornamentation this would involve. Blue, twist pattern, dovetail lump Damascus barrels with single brass bead sight, "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A." address on the smooth concave rib, chambers measured at 2 3/4 inches with single extractor, and improved modified/improved modified chokes. The casehardened receiver and locks have 75% coverage in sharp American scroll engraving, fancy font "COLT" maker's marks on the locks, dual triggers, knurled hammer spurs, and knurled break lever. The locks are also engraved with finely detailed game scenes of snipes on the right, and a stalking setter on the left. The trigger guard is engraved with a single duck in flight. Checkered walnut, round knob pistol grip stock and forearm with engraved fittings, blank initial oval, and checkered, hard rubber, Rampant Colt buttplate. Barrel and stock measurements are: bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .724/.723; choke constriction .026/.025; minimum wall thickness .031/.033; drop at comb 1 15/16 inches; drop at heel 3 3/16 inches; length of pull 14 1/8 inches.

Fine the barrels have 50% of the strong, visible Damascus pattern, areas of darker spotting, patches of oxidation and light pitting, and some small dings and deeper scratches. The receiver and locks have 40% original case colors (more vibrant in the protected areas), gray patina on the balance, some light spotting, and a mottled brown/gray patina on the guard. The wood is also fine with mostly crisp, well defined checkering, small dings and bruises throughout, and a very small repaired chip on the forearm tip insert. Mechanically excellent.