This is an original, unaltered Colt Cavalry Model 1873 Revolver manufactured in 1885. The accompanying factory letter lists the serial number, caliber and finish with the barrel length and stocks described as "Not Listed". It was shipped as one of 150 revolvers to the U.S. Government inspector at the Colt plant on December 14, 1885. The revolver was inspected by David F. Clark (DFC), the primary Army Ordnance sub-inspector at Colt from 1880-87. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address, and the left side of the frame is marked with the three line, three patent dates followed by "U.S." The complete serial number "116929" is marked on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The last "9" digit is struck over a "3", possibly a factory error. The partial serial number "6929" is marked on the barrel and cylinder. The bottom of the barrel is marked "P" and "D.F.C." just ahead of the cylinder pin. The cylinder has the same two markings, and there is a small "G" stamped below the serial number on the trigger guard and back strap, which is found on Colt Model 1873 revolvers in the 116656-116931 serial number range. The rear face of the cylinder is stamped with a small "S". The ejector housing is correctly un-serial numbered, and the ejector rod head is the late oval pattern fitted to all 1885 production Colt Single Action Army Cavalry Model Revolvers. The hammer has a bordered checkered spur. The loading gate is marked "37", and the left side of the grips are marked with a two letter script cartouche in an oval under "1885" and stamped with "D.F.C." on the bottom.

Very good. The metal surfaces have a cleaned gray patina with extensive scattered light pitting. The barrel address has been recut The metal was once subjected to a corrosive agent. Nearly all of the blue is present under the ejector rod housing. The grips are very good with minor wear, chips and nicks along the bottoms, some overall minor dings and a pleasant hand rubbed patina. The cartouche, date and inspection marks are clear. All markings on the metal are clear. Mechanically fine.