Rare Henry Nettleton Inspected U.S. Army Colt Cavalry Model Martial Single Action Revolver with Unique History Documented in Letter from Colt Expert John A. Kopec

Serial no. 48736, .45 caliber, 7 1/2-inch blued barrel with address reading: Colt's Pt. F.A. Mfg. Co. Hartford, Ct. U.S. Bottom of barrel marked: P/N.H. Case-hardened frame and hammer. Left side of frame marked: U.S. Right side of triggerguard stamped with a star, signifying a return to factory for repair or alteration. Bottom of frame and gripstrap assembly stamped: H.N. Period replacement one-piece walnut grips with faint, illegible cartouche. Sold together with an original letter from Colt author and expert John A. Kopec. Text relates how this revolver once had a later replacement barrel and the owner, knowing that Kopec did repairs on Colt single actions, wrote inquiring if he might have a Henry Nettleton marked barrel to replace the incorrect barrel now on the revolver. As luck would have it, Kopec had the actual original barrel with correct serial number that had once been on this exact firearm, a once in a lifetime coincidence. The original barrel was once more united with the gun. Kopec was also able to determine that this revolver was more than likely one of a group that were issued to the State militias of Missouri or Kansas. A unique and interesting martial Colt single action.

Condition: Very good. Barrel and ejector rod housing retaining approximately 75-80% finish with scattered wear and one spot of heavy pitting on top, near breech. Frame and hammer retaining much case-hardening with areas of vibrant color remaining. Cylinder with grey patina but retaining blue finish in flutes. Gripstrap assembly retaining strong traces of blue finish mixed with grey patina. Grips very good to excellent with minor wear and marks. Tiny chip present at toe of left grip. Mechanically tight and crisp. A rare and fine Henry Nettleton martial Colt single action with interesting and unique history.

Note: Manufactured in 1878

Estimate: $10000 - $15000