SOLD - Rare, Ainsworth-Inspected Colt Cavalry Single Action Army - Possible Custer Gun

Description

3/6/25 - This is a rare and Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army revolver from 1874. It is completely matching and U.S. military accepted. Proper 7.5in barrel with Ainsworth 'A' on barrel, trigger guard, top of back strap, and cylinder. Matching serial numbers throughout (barrel, cylinder, trigger guard, frame, grip strap). Correct two-line patent date (Sept / July) on left side of frame. The top of the barrel has "+COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A." marking with the die break in the "o" in "Co.", and the left of the frame has the "U.S." martial marking. This gun's serial number places it in the Lot Six range of the Custer-issued Colts that were carried at the infamous Battle of the Little Bighorn. The different serial number ranges are categorized as Lots Five, Six, Seven, and Eight with guns in Lot Five being the most likely Custer-issued guns and Lot Eight being the least likely. So this gun's serial number places it toward the more likely end of being Custer-issue gun. This particular gun has been completely professionally restored and refinished by Master Colt gun restorer, Dave Lanara. The inside of the frame under the loading gate has Dave's signature "L" marking. We can't say for sure which markings or numbers Dave may have reapplied during the restoration process. The gun is in stunning condition with beautiful bluing and no signs of wear or use except for a couple of tiny surface scratches. Mint wood grips. Smooth action and fully functional with all four "clicks". No FFL required.