1392
Historic 7th Cavalry Serial Range, Ainsworth Inspected, Colt Cavalry Single Action Revolver with Kop
Currency:USD
Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory
Start Price:4,000.00 USD
Estimated At:10,000.00 - 20,000.00 USD
SOLD
9,500.00USD+ buyer's premium + applicable fees & taxes.
This item SOLD at 2010 Sep 11 @ 13:38UTC-5 : EST/CDT
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A full invoice should be emailed to the winner by the auctioneer within a day or two.
This U.S. Colt Cavalry Single Action Revolver was manufactured in 1874 and inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector O. W. Ainsworth. This revolver is accompanied by a letter of authentication by Colt Single Action Army expert John A. Kopec. The letter states that this revolver falls within the serial number range of revolvers known to have been issued to the U.S. 7th Cavalry and carried at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Kopec states that Cavalry Single Action revolvers serial numbers 5020, 5065, and 5099 are "presumptive" 7th Cavalry issues and that serial number 5100 is a documented Custer Battlefield relic found on the Reno-Benteen battlefield. The revolver has the early 'script' address: "+COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co., HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.+" on the top of the barrel. The left side of the frame is roll stamped with the early, two-line/two-date, patent markings followed by the "U.S." property mark. Light scratches on the side of the frame indicate that an attempt was made to obliterate the property marking. The Kopec letter notes that other revolvers in the 7th Cavalry serial number range have similar defaced markings and that these scratches may have been the result of an attempt by the Sioux to obliterate the "U.S." markings. The serial number. "5080" is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and backstrap, and on the side of the barrel and cylinder. Small "P" proofmarks are stamped on the barrel and the side of the cylinder. The distinctive "A" inspection mark of O.W. Ainsworth is visible on the cylinder and on the trigger guard below the serial number. The loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "342". The barrel has been shortened to 4 3/4-inches and the front sight has been moved. The ejector housing and ejector rod head are period replacements and a barrel stud has been fitted for the ejector screw. The one piece walnut grip is a modern replacement. The Kopec letter states that the revolver is completely original except for the ejector assembly and grip. Firearms associated with the Battle of Little Bighorn are among the rarest and most desirable U.S. martial arms. This Ainsworth inspected Colt Single Action Cavalry revolver is definitely in the serial number range of revolvers experts agree were carried by Custer's 7th Cavalry at the Battle of Little Bighorn.
BBL: 4 3/4 In
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 5080
Condition: Good. The revolver has a brown patina and shows moderate to heavy service wear. The barrel legend and serial numbers are clear. There are an number of small nicks and dents on the lower portion of the barrel. The forward portions of the frame and cylinder show light flash pitting. There are a number of light scratches on the left side of the frame and the patent marking have been partially obliterated. The grips are in good overall condition with moderate handling wear and match the revolver well. The action is tight and functions well. This is a very rare, early production, Ainsworth inspected, Colt Cavalry Single Action revolver in the serial number range of pistols documented to have been carried by Custer's 7th Cavalry at the battle of Little Bighorn in 1876.
Auction Location:
4507 49th Avenue, Moline, Illinois, 62165, United States
Previewing Details:
Preview: Open to the public Thursday, September 9th from 10 AM to 6 PM and Friday, September 10th from 8 AM to 10 AM.
Buyer's Premiums:
| From (Incl.) | To (Excl.) | Premium |
| 0.00 |
Infinite |
19.5% |
Additional Fees:
Shipping Details:
Please contact the auction house for the preferred shipper’s contact information
Payment Details:
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