Martial marks are as follows. The U.S. mark is on the toe of the butt strap. The inspector marks L (for Samuel B. Lewis) and P (denoting Proof after it had been fired) are found on the rear face of the cylinder and on the underneath side of the barrel at the juncture to the frame.

The inspector mark L is also on the top of the frame's bottom strap (under the cylinder when the piece is closed). No cartouche is present.

The serial #1302 is found on the butt strap, the rear face of the cylinder, on the latch, the barrel, the latch screw, and stamped on the inside of the right grip.

Also, under the left grip on the side of the frame is the number 558 at the toe, and a diamond followed by S. at the heel.

The numerals designate May 1958 as the date of refinish work at the factory, and the diamond followed by the S are the S&W Service Department's refinish mark.

On the right side of the extractor housing is the single patent date SCHOFIELD'S PATENT APRIL 22ND, 1878.

On the left side of the extractor housing are five patent dates in two lines as follows: SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JAN. 17TH / and 24TH 65. JULY 11th 65. AUG. 24TH 69. JULY 25TH 71.

The piece retains 98% of it's refinished blue. The latch retains about 80% of the refinished case color. Traces of case remain on the trigger and hammer. All markings are 65% or better, showing some wear due to polishing at the time of refinish. The grips are in wonderful shape showing smooth use and no chips or cracks. There is one ding in the right grip and a dark stain at the bottom of the left grip.

Lock-up and indexing are excellent. The mechanics are crisp as new, the chambers are in fine shape, and the bore has some roughness and is very good plus with good strong lands and grooves. All in all this is a first class restored Schofield.

This gun was in the first group of government contract Schofields (serial #s 1 to 3000 @ $13.50 each) delivered to the Springfield Armory on July 12, 1875 for distribution to cavalry units fighting Indians on the western frontier.

(References: The History of Smith & Wesson by Roy Jinks, The Standard Catalogue of Smith & Wesson by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas, Flayderman's Guide to Antique American Firearms by Norm Flayderman, Schofields by Major Charlie Pate (SWCA Journal, Book II, page 323).