The accompanying Springfield Research Service letter states U.S. Ordnance records show that this revolver was issued to Troop C, 5th U.S. Cavalry during the Indian War period while in its original Cavalry configuration. Records also show the revolver was one of 31 SAAs "listed in the proceedings of a board of survey convened at Fort Riley, Kansas, on August 10, 1886. The board found that this revolver and others needed 'rebronzing', and recommended that it be sent to Rock Island Arsenal for repair." The included John Kopec letter confirms the information discussed in the Springfield Research Service letter, adds that the revolver was refurbished at Colt to its current Artillery configuration in 1903 and authenticates the revolver. Copied Ordnance records related to this revolver are also included. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by "U.S." This revolver has mixed numbers and components typical of the Artillery variants. The grip has inspector initials "RAC" on the bottom and the date "1903" above a script letter cartouche on the right side.

Fine. 70% of the factory refurbished blue finish remains with the balance a smooth gray patina. 40% of the factory case colors remain on the frame. The freshen grip is fine with high edge wear, limited handing marks and legible cartouche. Mechanically excellent. Truly a solid U.S. Artillery Model SAA revolver worthy of the finest Colt or U.S. military collections.