January 24, 2025 Old West Events Auction - Las Vegas
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/24/2025
Manufactured circa 1874 in standard military configuration. "A" Ainsworth inspector markings observed on barrel, frame, and cylinder. 1 piece walnut grips are matching, with serial number in backstrap channel. Colt Single Action Army serial number 5451 is part of historically significant Lot Five. It is considered the prime lot from which the 7th Cavalry were issued their revolvers before leaving for the Black Hills on July 2, 1874. Ejector rod assembly is a replacement, with later kidney shaped ejector rod head and tube being slotted and modified for easier use and cleaning sometime circa the 1890s. Accompanying this revolver is a Kopec letter, as well as provenance from when this gun was previously sold in 2007. In the accompanying provenance, this gun was acquired from a descendant of Edward Leiby, who reportedly served in the 3rd, 4th, 7th, and 10th Cavalries in the West, and this gun was handed down through the family until 1964. Also included are copies of a letter dated October 29th, 1864, to Mrs. Leiby (Edward's mother) from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, stating that Edward was wounded in battles in western Missouri and Kansas while serving in the 3rd Cavalry and that he was being well cared for. Complete with period unmarked leather holster and belt rig. CONDITION: Good, with virtually all of the original finish turned a gray patina with the exception of edges of ejector tube. Grips have been lightly sanded and refinished with small repair near right heel. Wood varnish is visible on top and bottom of backstrap. Mechanically fine with all 4 hammer stops. Bore is lightly frosted with sharp rifling. Holster is in fair condition. A good condition revolver from a historically significant lot in United States and Western history, accompanied by provenance and a holster that would make for an interesting piece for a Colt or Western collection.
ADDENDUM: A scan of the Kopec letter has been uploaded.
Paperwork
Kopec Letter, Prov