April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
Documented and reviewed by Colt expert John Kopec, Colt Single Action 17561 is attributed to Troop "C" 7th Cavalry. Inspected by A.P. Casey and sub-inspected by W.W. Johnson. This group of guns was issued to the 7th Cavalry replacement troops in October of 1876 and these troops are known as "Custer's Avengers". This revolver, according to John Kopec, is one of the 1197 guns later recalled and refurbished at Springfield Armory in 1895 for re-issue to the State of New York. During this refurbish the guns were cleaned, repaired, and refinished as necessary, giving them a slightly better grade of finish as opposed to the factory Colt finish applied at the factory. It is noted that gun is matching with the exception of the cylinder that is numbered 121047 and is considered to be field mixed by troopers in the field. The butt is marked with New York militia markings applied by the state armorer and it is believed by Mr. Kopec to identify the gun to 19th Separate Company, Signal Corps of the New York State Militia. These historic guns have a very low survival rate as they were utilized by the United States Cavalry and then the state militias. Surviving in the 7-1/2 inch Cavalry configuration and not having been modified to the 5 1/2 inch Artillery configuration makes them a very uncommon indeed. The revolver is accompanied by an original 12 round package of Frankford Arsenal cartridges dated August 1874. The package is sealed, unopened, and is exceptionally fine. CONDITION. Very fine. Over 40% blue finish remains on the barrel with most all blue under ejector rod housing with balance turning dove grey. The frame retains strong case colors in protected areas with typical silvering at high points from period use. The back strap is mostly worn patina with large areas of blue finish in protected area behind hammer. Trigger guard is mostly void of finish with exception of protected area around serial number. The grips are good with no cartouche but are properly serial numbered 7561 within backstrap channel. All markings are legible and bore and mechanics are very good. This revolver has been determined to be a historically correct New York Militia revolver by John Kopec and would be a great centerpiece to any collection of US Colt Single actions or Western Americana collection. This revolver is accompanied by the 2-page Kopec letter, the rare 1874 box of cartridges, and an NRA Ten Best Arms Exhibition Award coin, numbered 442.
Accessories
Ammo, NRA Award Coin