Manufactured in 1874. According to the accompanying John Kopec letter of authenticity, this revolver "is totally authentic in every respect" and "is an exceptional example of an early 1874 produced O.W. Ainsworth U.S. Cavalry revolver and worthy of the finest Colt collection." Ainsworth's "A" inspector mark is found on the barrel, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder. A "P" proof is found on the barrel and cylinder. It has the one-line Hartford barrel address, two-line patent dates and "US" frame markings, correct bullseye ejector rod head and matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder and barrel. Ainsworth physically inspected SAA revolvers recorded in the serial number range 200 through 14343. This was the first major block of U.S. Cavalry revolvers, and it was these arms that were used during the major Indian Wars and the famous Custer's Last Stand. According to the survey "Colt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers", this revolver falls into the 7528-8652 serial number range of 1,000 SAAs shipped to the 5th, 8th, and 9th Cavalries (page 234).

Very good plus. The barrel and ejector rod housing retain 25% original blue finish, strong amounts of original blue remain around the trigger, some original nitre blue remains on the trigger, traces of original blue finish remain on the cylinder flutes and back strap and strong patterns of original case colors remain on the frame and hammer, otherwise the revolver has a smooth brown-gray patina. The grip is good with high edge wear, a small missing chip near the bottom (right side) and minor handling/storage marks. Although there is slight play in the cylinder, the action functions. This solid, documented Ainsworth inspected Cavalry Revolver will make a great addition to any Colt SAA or U.S. cavalry collections.