May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/8/2024
Manufactured circa 1874 in standard configuration for use by the United States Government. Desirable early features include italicized single line barrel address complete with serifs on either side, and early ejector rod housing with barrel reinforcement stud. Marked on left side of frame with 2 line patent date as well as "U.S." in small block font. Marked with O.W. Ainsworth's "A" inspector marking on barrel, trigger guard, top of backstrap near hammer, and cylinder. Mounted with factory 1 piece walnut grips serial numbered on the interior of the backstrap "2490". Left grip panel bears "OWA" inspector cartouche and front area of butt on left side is marked with 3 "kill-notches". CONDITION: Very good, with a vast majority of the original finish turned an honest freckled gray patina with areas of faded original blue visible on ejector rod housing and on the barrel near the sight. Grips have had most of their finish worn away, but are very strong with no major cracks. Action is tight and crisp with all 4 hammer stops. Bore is lightly frosted with crisp rifling.