This example has a David F. Clark inspected frame, which lacks the "US" marking as commonly found on Colt repurchased government Cavalry Models. The included factory letter lists this revolver with "blue" finish, barrel length and grips not listed, when shipped to the U.S. Government Inspector at the Colt factory on October 29th, 1881. Most nickel plated U.S. contract Colt Single Action Army revolvers are believed to be buy back guns that were furnished to the states under the Militia Act and re-sold to Colt in usually unused condition. Many U.S. Single Action buy back revolvers were apparently nickel plated for Colt by the Adams Nickel-Plating & Mfg. Co. of South Windham, Connecticut in order to distinguish them from U.S. property guns and sold by Colt on the commercial market. It should be noted that Rock Island Auction previously sold another nickel plated example included in the same exact shipment as this example offered and close in serial range although with a "U.S" marked frame, serial number 73895 (Lot 3247, Auction 62). The top of the barrel is marked with the one-line Colt address, and the left of the frame has the three-line patent markings. The small "D.F.C." (David F. Clark) Ordnance sub-inspection mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel, bottom of the frame above the serial number and on the side of the cylinder. No Ordnance final inspection or sub-inspection marks visible on the grip. The loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "595". Full and partial matching visible serial numbers located on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, barrel, cylinder and handwritten in black ink inside the grip mortise.

Fine, retains 60% period retailer applied nickel plated finish with scattered areas flaking to a smooth gray and brown patina with some patches of light pitting, scratches, and defined markings and edges in the metal overall. Grip is good as period sanded and re-oiled, with scattered dents, scratches and flaking. The full cock hammer click is non-functioning, otherwise mechanically fine.