This highly desirable U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model revolver was manufactured in 1878. This revolver is one of 3,000 Colt Single Action revolvers inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector Henry Nettleton and Ordnance Inspector Captain John E. Greer. Colt Single Action revolvers that bear the "HN" sub-inspection mark of Henry Nettleton are some of the most collectible of all U.S. contract Single Action revolvers. In 1982 renowned Colt historian and author John Kopec examined this revolver and in his accompanying letter stated "this revolver in my opinion is 100% correct in all respects." Although the revolver carries the Colt factory return ampersand mark on the right side of the trigger guard, Kopec believed it was returned to the factory "for minor (possible internal) repairs. There is no indication that this revolver has ever been refinished in any way." The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." The underside of the barrel is stamped with a "P" proof mark and the "H.N." sub-inspection mark. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt "three-date/three-line" patent markings. The patent markings are followed by the "U.S." property mark; the property mark on this revolver is typical of Nettleton-inspected Single Action revolvers and does not have periods after the "U" and "S" and has the upset marks that indicate the property mark was stamped on a casehardened frame. Additional "HN" sub-inspector marks appear on the trigger guard, cylinder, back strap, and bottom of grip. Another "P" proof mark is stamped on the cylinder. Matching full or partial serial numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel. The left side of the grip is stamped with the date "1878" above the final inspection mark which consists of the script initials "JEG" (John E. Greer) with an oval border. The lower right side of the grip is stamped with the script sub-inspector initials "HN" in an oval.

Fine, retaining 40% plus original blue finish and 30% original case colors with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The lightly sanded, re-oiled grip is fine with high edge wear, a few handling marks, and legible date and cartouches. Mechanically excellent.