1875 Questions

[mwarri44]

I collect US Civil War/ Indian Wars firearms. This collection was stared in the 1950s by my grandfather. I have an 1875 which has caused me some question over the years. Unfortunately, gramps has long since passed and is unavailable for questions regarding the particulars of this firearm. I DO know that it is as he received it as he did not ever modify or shoot any of his collections pieces.

IMG_20180731_141616.jpg

The first curiosity is the "44 SPL" stamping upon the left side of the barrel.

PXL_20250411_041638885.jpg

Could someone have had this rechambered sometime post 1907 after the introduction of the .44 Special? Does this appear to be an early model? The serial number is 2803 with a assembly number of 272 as verified under the left grip.

PXL_20250411_041945422.jpg

PXL_20250411_042027186.jpg

A light, but visible "44" is centered on the left grip panel.

PXL_20250411_041754093.jpg

There are no other caliber markings on the trigger guard or frame except for the "44 SPL" as noted above on the left side of the barrel. The front sight is different as well, it is not a typical Remington Pinched Blade or Shark Fin style dight it is more angular in a manner of a target style sight.

PXL_20250411_041641833.jpg

Any clarification or knowledge about this would be very helpful and sincerely appreciated.

[Jim in Wisconsin]

Maybe it's just my computer, but I don't see any pictures.