October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
Noted expert John Kopec made several observations during his review. He states that this revolver could have been in service prior to the battle at the Little Bighorn and originated within Lot Seven with a few known 7th Cavalry guns within this lot number. He notes that the US on frame and USA on barrel were nicely removed and speculates that this was the work of a deserter (patent dates on frame were also eliminated). He also notes that many early Ainsworth Colts used left over 1860 mainsprings such as this example. You will find matching serial numbers on barrel, cylinder, frame, trigger guard and back strap. You will also find the Ainsworth A stamp on bottom of the barrel, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder. CONDITION: All legends are strong. There are no remaining visible cartouche stamps on grips and grips are slightly shy at toe with little original finish. The gun is an overall soft gray patina with original blue under housing. The action is crisp and the bore is sharp with light frosting. DB