Manufactured in late 1873 (nos. 3478 is the last shipped Cavalry of 1873, per Kopec letter). O.W. Ainsworth's desirable "A" inspector mark is found on the trigger guard, barrel, cylinder, back strap and bottom of grip. A "P" proof is found on the cylinder and barrel. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address, and the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by an obliterated "US." The ejector rod has a bullseye head. The left side of the grip has a faint script letter cartouche. The matching full serial number is found 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. Per the included letter of authentication, noted SAA expert and author John Kopec states the revolver was likely issued to the 4th Cavalry during the early Indian Wars period and noted the replacement base pin screw, obliterated "US" frame markings as characteristic of a period soldier/deserter stolen revolver and correct script barrel address. He concludes the authentication letter, "Truly this revolver remains a 'cut above' the revolvers we frequently encounter. It clearly shows the thoughtful care of its former owner(s)."

Very good plus. Strong traces of original blue finish remain on and around the ejector rod housing and traces of original case colors remain on the frame and hammer in the protected areas, otherwise a smooth brown-gray patina. The grip is also very good with a couple chips at the toes, high edge wear and minor handling marks. Mechanically functions, but is slightly out of time as cylinder skips.