^Lot 3277 VERY RARE, DOCUMENTED "PRE-1895" ISSUE NEW YORK

MILITIA COLT SAA CAVALRY REVOLVER. Cal 45 Colt. S# 140064. Listed by serial number on page 129 of "COLT CAVALRY & ARTILLERY REVOLVER...A CONTINUING STUDY" by Kopec & Fenn, this revolver is one of only 15 identified by the authors as it is likely that most were refurbished and re-issued as Artillery revolvers. Page 127 states "There is, however, one group of Cavalry revolvers which shows physical evidence of being part of the "Pre 1895" group of New York Militia revolvers. Most of these revolvers were part of the very last group of U.S. Cavalry revolvers shipped from Colt. These revolvers left Colt on April 29, 1891". This revolver was part of that shipment. Page 127 further states "These were part of the lot of seventy such revolvers which then were issued to the state of New York on January 26, 1893". Page 129 notes that most of these revolvers were fitted with a lanyard ring likely by the State Armorer rather than by Springfield. Left side of frame marked "US". Revolver is stocked with original "1891" dated grips and display "S.E.B." cartouche. "RAC" cartouche on butt not visible due to wear & dents. This is another rare feature as it is additionally noted on page 129 that most N.Y. Militia revolvers were fitted with refinished grips, Left side of grip marked "3SC" with additional illegible marking above date stamp. Bottom of grip frame marked with "8" and "B". Bottom of bbl, frame & cyl marked "RAC". Bbl. and cyl. additionally marked with "P" proof. "K" proof marked on butt, end of ejector housing, in hammer slot and bottom of trigger guard frame below serial number. Hammer slot also marked "O". Matching numbers on frame, butt, trigger guard frame & bbl. (0064). Cyl numbered "6348". UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Colt factory letter stating the following: Serial Number: 140064 / Barrel Length: Not Listed / Finish: Blue / Type of Stocks: Not Listed / Sold To: United States Governemnt . Delivered ToL U.S. Government Inspector / Address: located at the Colt plant / Number of Same Type Guns in Shipment: 250". CONDITION: fair to good in original "as found" condition. Metal parts have faded to gray with some brown patina & fine light pitting Areas of original blue appear in protected areas. Grip shows wear with numerous scattered dents, scratches & handling marks; cartouches are light but visible. Unit markings are still strong. Cyl. pin retaining screw slot shows some marring from improper screw driver use. Bore is good with strong rifling and scattered areas of light to moderate pitting. Mechanics in need of attention as cyl has some play. All 4 notches are present and hammer hold strong. A very rare and often overlooked sub category of the New York Militia Revolver Any original Pre-1895 issue would deserving of a place in an advanced Martial collection. (01-28479/BH). ANTIQUE. $8,000-12,000.