5,000 of the estimated 5,800 manufactured were produced under contract for the U.S. Government in early 1865, but they were delivered too late to see use in the Civil War. Most were sold via Bannerman's in the early 20th century. This example has standard single letter inspection marks throughout and the "RPB" inspection cartouche of Captain Robert P. Barry on the left grip. Matching serial number "1033" marked underneath the barrel, on the left of the frame, cylinder, butt, and stamped on the inside of the grips. The barrel has a standard silver cone front sight, and the top strap has the standard markings and the groove rear sight.
Fine, retaining 60% plus original high polish blue finish with flaking concentrated on the top and front of the barrel and on the back strap showing smooth brown patina on the balance, some areas of light pitting, and sharp markings in the metal. Casehardened surfaces turned to a smooth gray patina. Grips are also fine with attractive original raised grain and rich oil finish, various chips along the bottom edges, a pin-sized hole in the right grip, and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically fine.
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