Desirable Early Production 3 Digit Serial Number Ainsworth Inspected U.S. Colt Model 1873 Single Action Cavalry Revolver This is an exceptionally early production, early three digit serial numbered Colt Model 1873 Calvary revolver that was manufactured in the first year of production. This specific revolver was shipped in the very first shipment of these new Colt 1873 revolvers as part of a 1,000 gun shipment sent to Springfield Armory in late 1873, which were then shipped to Leavenworth, Kansas, for issuance to the 10th Cavalry. This was the first major shipment of U.S. Cavalry revolvers, and the revolvers were used during the Indian Wars. The left side of the frame is stamped with the early two-line patent dates followed by the "U.S." stamp. The top of the barrel is marked with the early slant letter "+ COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A+." The underside of the barrel is stamped with a small "P" firing proof and "A" (Ainsworth) inspector stamp and matching exposed serial number "238" just ahead of the cylinder pin. The front of the frame, trigger guard, back strap and side of the cylinder are all correctly stamped with the matching serial number "238". The replacement ejector rod housing is not numbered. Numbered ejector rod housings are only found on a very few specimens. Additionally, there is a single "A" inspector stamp on the side of the cylinder, top of the back strap and trigger guard. It still retains its original early first pattern cylinder that has the slightly beveled front edges with the square cylinder stops without any approaches along with the original first pattern bulls eye ejector rod that was used on the Calvary revolvers until approximately 1889. It has the standard blade front and notch rear sights. It is fitted with a one-piece smooth walnut grip. Manufacturer: Colt Model: 1873 BBL: 7 1/2 inch round Stock: Gauge: 45 LC Finish: blue/casehardened Grips: walnut Serial Number: 238 Class: Antique Condition: Fair. The revolver has a mixed brown-brown gray patina showing areas of darkened blue finish on the frame and shadows of silvered out case colors on areas where the blue has faded and on the loading gate. The U.S. on the frame has been partially peened. There are some areas of minor pitting. The grips have been sanded and show an old varnish overlay with a couple missing small chips and a deep gouge near the bottom. The ejector rod was replaced some time ago. Mechanically excellent. These early Ainsworth revolvers are extremely difficult to find in any condition, let alone from the first crate to leave the factory!

  • Condition: See Description

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by Rock Island Auction Company
December 3, 2016 9:00 AM CST
7819 42nd Street West
Rock Island, IL, US 61201

Rock Island Auction Company

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000