Revolver Colt DA 38 question

[GOTGUNQUESTION?]

I need some help finding out what this gun is and any other information on it. I was given to me in a will and I think it might have belonged to my great great grandfather but not sure. Thanks
Some info from the Images
On the but 10695
On the barrel Colt D.A. 38
inside E 374

Thank you in ad

 

[Jim Watson]

Looks like a model of 1905 USMC, made 1906.
RARE, less than 1000 made.

You need a real expert on details, I don't see USMC markings, but it is in the military serial number range, too low for commercial. The lanyard loop has been removed and the hole neatly plugged.
Grips look crisp and bluing bright, EXCEPT WHERE LET TO RUST.
You need expert help on arresting the rust without hurting the blue.

 

[GOTGUNQUESTION?]

Question if thats' the case why doesn't it say USMC on it somewhere? Secondly anyone know where I would start to look for an expert?Please don't say google it been there done that mostly find a bunch of forums. Thanks

 

[Slamfire]

I can't tell from the out of focus and poorly lighted pictures whether it has been re blued. If the remaining finish is original, don't have it reblued. Period Colt finishes were a fantastic charcoal blue conducted in special furnances filled with bone and charcoal. Duplication takes specialists, such as Turnbull Restorations to refinish. I suspect a Turnbull refinish job is $400 or more.

 

[MI2600]

From the serial # you provided, the gun was produced in 1898. It is chambered in .38 Long Colt, which is a shortened .38 Spl case. However, these early models were loaded with "Heeled" bullets which were the same diameter as the outside of the brass case, with only the lower "heel" inserted into the case. Unless you reload, factory cartridges are "unobtainium". Later versions (ca 1901?) used a standard style .38 bullet with the shorter .38LC case.
As noted above, these guns do not have a particularly strong action and parts are extremely scarce.