Make: Remington

Model: Model 1875 "Mexican Contract"

Serial Number: 10727

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1875-1889

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action Type: Single Action Revolver with a Six-Shot Cylinder

Markings: The revolver bears Mexican military acceptance markings, including the “R de M” stamp on the right front of the frame, which signifies Republica de México (Republic of Mexico). Additional marks include an inventory number and the Mexican Liberty Cap emblem on top of the barrel. These markings indicate this revolver was part of a contract order from the Mexican government.

Barrel Length: 7.5” (Rare for a Mexican Contract, as many were cut down during service use)

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a pinched fixed blade, and the rear sight is a groove milled into the top strap.

Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth walnut, period-correct. They exhibit handling wear, small dings, and minor age-related marks, rating in Very Good condition given the revolver’s military service history.

Cylinder Condition: The cylinder shows expected handling wear, light oxidation, and much of the original finish. The chambers appear clean, and the "R de M" stamp is present on the cylinder, as was common with these Mexican contract revolvers.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with visible rifling, showing light pitting but remaining shootable. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains a strong historical presence, and about 85% of its original nickel finish, with the most notable wear on the right side of the cylinder and frame. The markings remain clear, and the frame, barrel, and cylinder all exhibit period-correct wear expected of a military contract firearm that saw field use. The screw heads are serviceable, and the mechanics remain sound. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good condition considering its history.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer locks back firmly, and the cylinder rotates properly with good lockup. The timing is solid, and the trigger remains crisp. We did not fire this revolver. As with all antique firearms, a thorough inspection by a qualified gunsmith is recommended before use.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment:
The Remington Model 1875 was the company’s attempt to compete with Colt’s Single Action Army, offering a rugged and reliable single-action revolver chambered in powerful calibers like .45 Colt and .44 Remington. Though less commercially successful than the Colt SAA, the Remington 1875 found favor with several foreign militaries, including Mexico.

This revolver is a Mexican Government Contract Model, as evidenced by the "R de M" (Republica de México) stamp, Mexican Liberty Cap, and inventory numbers. These revolvers were issued to the Mexican military and law enforcement, often seeing heavy service in conflicts and border skirmishes. Most Mexican Contract 1875s had their barrels shortened during service, making this original 7.5” barrel example an exceptionally rare find.

For collectors of Old West, military, or Remington firearms, this revolver represents an authentic, historic piece with undeniable provenance. The Mexican Contract 1875s are highly sought after, and examples with original-length barrels and clear markings are exceedingly scarce.

Whether for display, collection, or historical study, this Remington Model 1875 Mexican Contract Revolver is a true piece of 19th-century military history that would enhance any antique firearm collection.