This Colt Cavalry Model revolver was inspected by Lieutenant David A. Lyle and sub-inspectors John T. Cleveland and Lewis Draper. It was examined by noted Colt historian and author John Kopec and he recorded his observations in the accompanying silver seal letter of authentication. The revolver was a new listing in the Kopec survey, falling between nos. 31762 (a New York militia revolver) and 31775 (an Artillery Model) in the database. Kopec noted, "Interestingly, we find that the consecutively numbered revolver #31775 is today found in the Artillery configuration, indicating that some of these revolvers within this serial number range had actually served with a Cavalry regiment prior to being recalled during 1893." Nos. 31554 and 31890 are known to have been issued to the 3rd Cavalry. As this revolver remains in original Cavalry Model configuration, Kopec concluded it had been issued to a state militia unit. The barrel and cylinder were inspected by John T. Cleveland. The frame was inspected by Lewis Draper. Lyle's cartouche under "1876" is on the left side of the grip, and Cleveland's cartouche is on the right. The bottom of the grip has Cleveland's "JTC" initials. The frame has the three-line patent dates followed by "U.S." on the left side and "LD" on the underside just above the serial number. The underside of the barrel has a "P" proof and "JTC." The cylinder has a "P" proof and "JTC." "Dual inspected" Cavalry Models are extremely desirable revolvers. Colt SAA experts Kopec and Fenn only accounted for 36 Cavalry Models with Lewis Draper sub-inspected frames in the 30693-35569 serial number range on page 45 in "Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers…a Continuing Study." Matching full serial number "31774" appears on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The matching partial serial number "1774" is on the cylinder and barrel.

Very fine, retaining 70% original blue finish with scattered specks of surface oxidation, thinning to brown on the balance. The hammer and frame retain 75% original case colors. The grip is excellent with a few handling marks, some high edge wear, and crisp date and cartouches. Action needs work as all hammer notches do not hold and the cylinder stop does not engage. A very attractive documented example of a highly sought after and very scarce Draper and Cleveland double inspected U.S. Colt Cavalry Model revolver.