This is an example of a Colt Single Action Army Cavalry revolver inspected by John Cleveland, principal Sub-Inspector and Lewis Draper a Sub-Inspector who worked entirely on frame inspection. It was obviously rejected by the Government and sold to the civilian trade which is evidenced by the original varnished one piece grips. The revolver comes in a wooden case with a brass plague affixed to the lid which reads ""BUFFALO BILL" PONY EXPRESS RIDER/-1860-/COL. WM. FREDERICK CODY/U.S. CAVALRY - 1876". The top of the barrel is marked "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.-", the two-line 1871 and 1872 patent dates on the left side of the frame and the left trigger guard shoulder is marked "45 CAL.". . "LD/C" is marked above the serial number on the frame and the matching serial number is marked on the frame, trigger guard and back strap, with the partial serial number "2533" on the barrel under the ejector housing and on the cylinder. Assembly number "6002" is marked on the loading gate. The revolver has the early "bulls eye" ejector rod head, blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened frame and fitted with a smooth varnished one piece walnut grip. There is no paperwork provided to substantiate whether this revolver ever belonged to Buffalo Bill Cody.

Very good. The revolver retains 20% original blue finish concentrated in protected areas and in the cylinder flutes with a mottled gray and brown patina on the balance. The grip is good with most of the original varnish remaining, and showing some wear along the lower edges, a number of small notches cut into the left side, a chip on the right toe, minor dings and dents. The markings are clear. The action is fine. The case is very good. The cut out for the revolver was nonprofessionally cut out with velvet lining glued down over the top of it.