Colt Model 1873 Single Action Cavalry Revolver manufactured in 1874. The revolver is accompanied by a Letter of Authentication from John A. Kopec. The letter states that Kopec believes this revolver was originally issued to the 5th Cavalry Regiment during 1874-75. The revolver has a mis-matched cylinder numbered "8726". The Kopec letter notes that revolver serial number "18732" was issued to the 5th Cavalry and states that he believes that this cylinder may have been "field-mixed" with the original cylinder during service with the 5th Cavalry. Kopec further states that this revolver most probably was not turned in for refurbishment and alteration to Artillery Configuration in 1893 because it was previously "liberated" by a deserter and that, with the exception of the "field mis-matched" cylinder the revolver is all correct and in the original configuration. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the early script address: "+COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.+" in one line with slanted crosses at either end. This revolver was inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector Orville W. Ainsworth; his "A" inspection mark is visible on the underside of the barrel and trigger guard and the top of the back strap. A small "P" proofmark is stamped on the underside of the barrel. The left side of the frame is stamped with the early Colt, 'Two-date/two-line' patent marking followed by the "U.S." property mark. The assembly number "617" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The full serial number "7563" is visible on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The cylinder is stamped with the partial serial number "8726" a "P" proofmark and the "C" sub-inspection mark of A. P. Casey. The left side of the one-piece walnut stock has what appear to be several notches that have been roughly scratched out. The right side of the grip is carved with a dimensional square box. The revolver is accompanied by a "California" pattern holster. The holster is made of light weight russet leather and has a deep, double-recurved throat profile, belt loop with a single copper rivet and rounded, sewn toe with drain hole. The holster is decorated with simple hand-stamped designs. The holster appears to date from the 1875-85 period.

Good. The revolver has a dark brown natural patina finish with traces of the original blue on protected areas of the ejector tube. The revolver has scattered light pitting with small dents and scratches. The grips are in fair overall condition with a number of small dents in the right heel. With the exception of the inspection marks on the grip all of the original marks are intact and legible. The hammer will not hold at full-cock. The holster is in fair condition with moderate-heavy wear. The upper portion of the holster throat has period re-stitching. There is moderate to heavy flaking on the upper portion of the holster. The stitching is tight. This is a sold example of a early production, Ainsworth-inspected, Colt Cavalry Model Single action Revolver that almost certainly was used by the U.S. 5th Cavalry Regiment in the Indian Wars and apparently saw additional service after being 'liberated' from the U.S. Army.