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Documented Ainsworth Inspected Nickel Plated U.S. Colt Black Powder Cavalry Model Single Action Army

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:4,000.00 USD Estimated At:10,000.00 - 15,000.00 USD
Documented Ainsworth Inspected Nickel Plated U.S. Colt Black Powder Cavalry Model Single Action Army

Estimate: $10000 - 15000
Manufactured in 1874. This revolver was inspected by Orville W. Ainsworth and is stamped with his distinctive "A" sub-inspectors mark on the bottom of the barrel, below the serial number on the trigger guard, and on the top of the back strap. These nickel-plated Cavalry Models were plated for issuance to Indian Scouts, special order "officers" revolvers, surplus militia revolvers sold back to Colt or nickeled by commercial businesses and U.S. Navy revolvers. Kopec's "The Story Of The Colt Single Action Army Revolver" identifies the largest single block of nickeled Cavalry revolvers as occurring in the 11,800 through the 14,230 serial number range, all manufactured in 1874 and all inspected by Ainsworth. This specific revolver is listed by serial number on page 161 under a block titled "Ainsworth Nickel-Plated Revolvers" in the book "Colt Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers" by Kopec and Fenn. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address and the left side of the frame is marked with the two line, two patent dates followed by "US". There is a "P" on the bottom of the barrel ahead of the cylinder pin and on the cylinder. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap, and the partial serial number "3247" is marked on the bottom of the barrel under the ejector housing and on the cylinder. Standard blade front and frame notch rear sights, "bulls-eye" ejector rod head and fitted with a period replacement smooth one-piece walnut grip.
BBL: 7 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 LC
Finish: nickel
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 13247
Condition: Very fine. The revolver retains 85% period nickel finish with wear on the muzzle and edges with scattered minor flaking. The grips are moderately undersized and remain fine with a small chip on each toe and a few minor dings. The markings remain clear. The action is excellent.
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