These Colt "Artillery Model" Single Action Army revolvers 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, including a very early "Lot Six" frame. The frame is numbered "5540" which dates to 1874, falling right at the beginning of the "Lot Six" serial number range (5505-6516). Lot Six was one of the prime groupings of SAA revolvers issued to the 7th Cavalry from Ft. Abraham Lincoln on July 2, 1874, just before the 7th's departure to the Black Hills and Custer's infamous defeat at Little Bighorn. The left of the frame has the standard two-line patent dated and "U.S." marked on the left. The trigger guard is numbered "76105" and the back strap is numbered "115721". The barrel is numbered "4819" with "P" proofs, which are repeated on the cylinder. There are faint cartouches visible on both sides of the grip and what appears to be a "1901" date on the left.

Very good, retaining 30% of the arsenal refurbished blue and patterns of casehardened finishes, primarily in sheltered areas, with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina and some mild pitting at the muzzle, mostly on the left. The grip is also good showing moderate wear and some scattered minor dings and chips. Mechanically excellent. A revolver that definitely shows the look of having survived the Indian Wars and beyond!