In 1895 a number of U.S. Colt Cavalry Single Action Army Revolvers, like this one, were returned to either the Colt factory where they were refurbished into Artillery Models, often with little regard to which gun the parts came from, resulting in a mix of serial numbers and markings. This revolver was sent back to the factory again in 1903 and was again shipped to the Commanding Officer at the Springfield Armory on June 1, 1903. The accompanying factory letter verifies the caliber, blue finish at the time of shipment, barrel length and grips "Not Listed" and that it was shipped to Springfield Armory on June 1, 1903. Remarks state the original records were lost or destroyed, however the records indicated return to the factory for refurbishing and subsequent reshipment. The revolver was then subsequently custom engraved and finished in nickel at some point in time. The barrel, frame and alternating cylinder flats are engraved with a floral scroll design with a punch dot background much in the style of Master Engraver Cuno A. Helfricht. The ejector housing has zigzag line, dot and dash patterns, there is a feather pattern on the top strap, shell design on the recoil shield, loading gate and top of the back strap, decorative zigzag line designs on the back strap and trigger guard and a star burst on the alternating cylinder flats with a zigzag line around the rear. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address bordered by a simple line and dot design, the left side of the frame is marked with the two line, two patent dates followed by "US" in a panel. The underside of the barrel is marked with a "P" and "R.A.C.". The frame is serial numbered "11735", "6874" on the trigger guard and "9139" on the back strap. There is an "A" under the trigger guard serial number and on the cylinder. All nickel finish, standard blade front and frame notch rear sights and fitted with a one-piece ivory grip with a carved steer head on the right side.

Very fine as professionally refinished and embellished with 98% nickel finish remaining. There is some mild flaking and some pitting under the finish in the cylinder flutes. The grip is excellent with an attractive grain and patina. The engraving and markings are crisp and clear. The action is fine.