Colt Single Action Army 1873 US Army Revolver .45 Cal. – Possible 7th Cavalry Issue

Manufactured: 1875 – Caliber: .45 Colt – Possible 7th Cavalry Association

Colt Single Action Army 1873 US Army revolver manufactured in 1875, chambered in .45 Colt, retaining its military markings and possibly linked to the famous 7th Cavalry. An authentic collector's piece from the era of the Indian Wars.

History

The Colt Single Action Army Model 1873, better known as the “Peacemaker,” served as the standard sidearm of the U.S. Army during the American frontier period. Issued primarily to mounted troops, it accompanied American cavalrymen throughout the Indian Wars and played a role in some of the most significant events in U.S. military history.

In the late 19th century, many service revolvers were recalled to government arsenals for inspection and refurbishment. During these programs, components were often reassembled without regard to their original serial numbers, creating what collectors refer to as “mismatched” revolvers. This process explains why authentic military revolvers can still be encountered today in respectable condition despite long periods of service.

Our Example

Note: According to the reference research of John Kopec, the serial number 173XX of this revolver falls within a range where nearby documented serial numbers (17128, 17403, and 17432) have been attributed to a company of the prestigious 7th Cavalry Regiment. While no definitive attribution can be established without a Colt factory letter or official military documentation, this proximity adds notable historical interest to the firearm.

This military-issued Colt Single Action Army naturally reflects a period of active service. Nevertheless, it has survived in very respectable condition. The metal surfaces show evidence of an old refinish, likely carried out during an arsenal refurbishment, which has given the revolver an attractive and consistent appearance.

The Colt markings remain clearly visible. The barrel address is still legible despite light age-related wear. The military “U.S.” marking and inspection stamps are also present.

Serial numbers can be found on the frame (17XXX), trigger guard (2XXX), grip frame, and cylinder, confirming its status as a military refurbished example. The oil-finished walnut grips, correct for the military pattern, bear an engraved initial. They display expected wear consistent with age, along with a small loss at the lower right side.

Mechanically, this revolver remains in excellent working condition. It exhibits no looseness at full cock and no excessive cylinder gap. The four distinctive Colt clicks are crisp and well defined, the action is strong, the trigger pull clean, and timing is precise. The 5½-inch barrel, chambered in .45 Colt, retains a bright bore with strong, well-defined rifling.

Thanks to its military authenticity, early manufacture date, excellent mechanical condition, and possible association with the legendary 7th Cavalry, this Colt 1873 represents a highly desirable collector's piece for enthusiasts of U.S. military firearms and the American Frontier.

The revolver is accompanied by its official French Category D classification certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.