Offered here is a highly attractive Colt Artillery Model SAA. These arms were brought back into service during the Spanish-American War, Filipino-American War, and Moro Rebellion. Though nicknamed "Artillery Models," they were actually issued to a variety of U.S. Army units and particularly known to have been favored for use against the Moro warriors who were known to continue fighting after being shot with the weaker .38 caliber Colt double action revolvers also in use. The revolver has mixed numbers and components typical of the Artillery variants. The frame dates to 1880, was inspected by David F. Clark, and has the three-line patent marking followed by "U.S." on the left side. Clark's inspector initials are also found on the cylinder. Other inspector marks include Ainsworth's "A" on the back strap. The grip has the refurbishment "1902" date on the left side. Both sides of the grip feature clear script letter cartouches. The bottom left side of the grip is stamped with Rinaldo A. Carr's inspector initials "RAC." The back strap no. 8454 falls into a serial number range of host guns that were issued to the 5th, 8th and 9th Cavalries. The top of the barrel has the one-line Hartford address. The barrel, ejector housing, cylinder, back strap and trigger guard have the 1895 Colt commercial blue finish. The hammer, frame and loading gate are casehardened and have vivid case colors.

Exceptionally fine as Colt factory refurbished. 90% plus of the bright high polish blue finish remains on the barrel, ejector rod housing, cylinder and both grip straps with high edge wear and a patch of gray on the trigger guard. 85% of the vivid case colors remain on the hammer and frame. The grip is very fine with a small chip near the butt, some minor handling marks and clear cartouches. Mechanically excellent. Overall an exceptional U.S. Colt Artillery Model Revolver.