October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2018
This is the earliest US Colt Cavalry revolver of the collection. It was manufactured during 1874, inspected by O.W. Ainsworth and originated from within Lot No. 8 (No. 7528-8652). These revolvers were issued to the 5th, 8th and 9th Cavalries 1874 to 1875. John could not locate this serial number in the National Archives but speculates 5th Cavalry due to the identified revolvers in this range. He also notes that the cylinder is numbered with a partial number “8726” with “C” sub-inspection stamp for A.P. Casey, therefore this cylinder originated from the 1875 manufactured revolver No. 18726 indicating a field mix during the time in service. The grips of this revolver appear to be totally original but could not be removed because of being rusted tightly to the backstrap. Revolver was found to be in non-functioning condition and in need of mechanical repairs with denting to forward area of trigger guard. A cleverly carved dimensional box is carved into the right grip and the left grip has old kill marks which were partially removed. Overall the revolver sports a dark brown, natural patina with traces of military finish. All markings are original except grip cartouches are no longer visible. This revolver has donut head ejector and US stamp on left frame. Ainsworth “A” is fond stamped on the barrel, trigger guard, backstrap. Casey “C” stamp on cylinder. Grips are chipped at toe. Frame screws are slightly marred as is the cylinder release pin. Grips are chipped at three toes. Two line patent address and slanted barrel address with crosses. Front sight slightly shortened. Does not have all four clicks but does lock up and index. Muzzle is slightly rounded from holster use. Bore is surprisingly clean with sharp rifling and just a hint of black powder abrasion. Grips appear to have a few white paint speckles that could easily be removed on left panel. For whatever reason, this revolver comes with a period Slim Jim holster, not maker marked, border tooled and open toe. Back of which also has a few white paint specks which would indicate the holster has been with the revolver a long time and was laying with its back exposed.