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LOT 3162
Documented David F. Clark Inspected U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter and John Kopec Gold Seal Letter - Serial no. 119138, 45 LC cal., 7 1/2 inch round bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut grips. This U.S. contract Colt “Cavalry Model” single action revolver was manufactured in 1887 and inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector David F. Clark. The included factory letter states the revolver was delivered
to the U.S. government inspector at the Colt plant on January 18, 1887. This was a delivery of 250 Cavalry Models. Renowned Colt historian and author John Kopec examined this Cavalry Model and summarizes his conclusions in his included gold seal letter of authentication. This revolver was previously listed in his survey and finds it “very possible that our subject revolver had been issued to the state of Idaho” in 1887. Kopec noted that in the survey 364 revolvers were issued to militia units in 1887 with the majority issued to Idaho. Kopec final words on the revolver, “This revolver shows that it has received very careful storage throughout the years, showing enough of the minute scratches and nicks to insure originality.” The revolver features the standard one-line Hartford barrel address, and the frame has the three-line Colt patent marking followed by “U.S.” property mark. A small block “D.F.C.” sub-inspection mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel, bottom of the frame above the serial number, side of the cylinder and on the left grip butt. “P” proofmarks are stamped on the underside of the barrel and side of the cylinder. The assembly number “28” is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The full serial number is visible on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The partial serial number “9138” is stamped on the side of the cylinder and barrel. The grip has a script letter cartouche on each side as well as the date “1887” on the left side. Kopec highlights the outstanding condition of the grip in his letter, stating the markings remain in “textbook condition.” CONDITION: Very fine. The barrel and ejector rod housing retain 70% original blue finish, the cylinder retains 40% plus original blue finish strongest in the flutes and 60% original blue finish on the grip straps with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The hammer retains 70% original case colors. The frame retains 40% original case colors in and around the sheltered areas. The grip is very fine with a series of dings on the bottom, otherwise some minor handling marks. As noted by Kopec the cartouches are crisp. Mechanically excellent. Estimate: 16,000 - 25,000
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