^Lot 17 Colt Single Action Army 45 Colt SN: 116517

Early Vintage First Generation SAA 'Artillery Model' single action revolver manufactured circa 1885, shipped to the United States Government on December 3rd, 1885. The Colt factory letter does not specify barrel length. Other identified US Martial revolvers with serial numbers close to the number on this frame are 7-1/2" cavalry revolvers. This example appears to have been shortened from a longer length to 5-1/2", with the front sight relocated. Approx 16,000 cavalry length guns were shortened in this fashion circa 1893, without any attention to numbering on the various parts such as triggerguard or backstrap. This revolver features 5-1/2" barrel, smooth walnut one piece grip, blued finish. Markings include: "US" on left side of frame, "DFC" on bottom of frame, partial "DFC" and "P" on cylinder, "K" on triggerguard, partial "A" on backstrap. Numbers do not match, with partial "(zero?)95" on cylinder, "14009" on triggerguard, "7 53" on back strap, "2805" on barrel. Bore is lightly frosted with some scattered tiny pits, generally bright overall with good rifling. Charge holes are dark with very little roughness. Metal surfaces are silvery gray, some darker color in cylinder flutes and other protected areas. Case colors on frame are present, faint, show mottled light and medium grays. Many areas show heavy buffing, with some smoothing of sharp edges. Some screw heads show marring to slots, many screw holes show dishing from polishing. Grips are good condition, smooth, very little shrinkage, good fit to frame. Barrel address is very faint and unreadable. Patent dates are partially eroded. Action is smooth with good lock-up, all four "clicks" are present when cocking the hammer. Included letters from Colt and from John Kopec. The Colt letter verifies this serial number frame as being a US military revolver. The Kopec letter details specifics of condition and status, with some guesses at possible history of the various parts used to assemble this as an 'Artillery Model'. Condition is near NRA Very Good as reworked *** Antique Firearm ***