The accompanying factory letter states this revolver was originally delivered to the U.S. Government Inspector at the Colt plant on September 30, 1885, later returned to the factory for refurbishment to Artillery Model configuration, and reshipped to Springfield Armory, Springfield, MA on April 17, 1903. These arms were brought back into service during the Spanish-American War, Filipino-American War, and Moro Rebellion. Though nicknamed "Artillery Models," they were actually issued to a variety of U.S. Army units and particularly known to have been favored for use against the Moro warriors who were known to continue fighting after being shot with the weaker .38 caliber Colt double action revolvers also in use. The revolver has mixed numbers and components typical of the Artillery variants. The frame was inspected by David F. Clark. Both grip straps have serial number "1601," which falls into a serial number range of revolvers originally issued to the 6th Cavalry, and were inspected by O.W. Ainsworth. The barrel and grip have Rinaldo A. Carr's "RAC" inspector initials. "P" proof marks are on the barrel and cylinder. The right side of the grip has the date "1903" above Rinaldo A. Carr's script letter "RAC" cartouche. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top. The left side of the frame has the three-line, three patent dates making followed by "U.S." The ejector rod has the early "bullseye" head. Provenance: The Dr. Robert Azar Collection

Exceptionally fine as Colt factory refurbished. 85% of the blue finish remains on the barrel, ejector rod housing, cylinder and both grip straps with thinning and high edge wear on the balance. 95% of the case colors remain on the hammer and frame. The grip is very fine with high edge wear and some dings. The cartouche is clear. The action functions fine, but is absent the half cock notch in hammer. Overall an exceptional U.S. Colt Artillery Model Revolver.