Colt 1873 Cavalry Model Single Action Army .45 Colt 7.5” SAA Revolver (1880)
This original Colt 1873 Cavalry Model Single Action Army revolver, manufactured in 1880, is an authentic U.S.-issue example chambered in .45 Colt. Bearing inspector marks from Lt. David A. Lyle and sub-inspector David F. Clark, it includes a letter of authenticity from John A. Kopec confirming the revolver’s originality and military provenance.
Identification
MMA#: 250827KL001
Make: Colt
Model: 1873 Cavalry Model Single Action Army
Serial Number: 55602
Year of Manufacture: 1880
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side-Gate Loaded Cylinder
Markings & Proofs
The top of the barrel reads “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” The underside shows “D.F.C.” and “P” ahead of the cylinder pin head; under the ejector housing are “5602” and “C / G.” Cylinder markings include “5602,” “D.F.C.,” and “P.” Matching serials appear on the frame, trigger guard, and butt. The left frame is stamped “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871 / JULY. 2. -72 / JAN. 19. -75” and “U.S.” The rear of the loading gate shows assembly number “2837.”
Barrel & Sights
Barrel Length: 7½ inches
The front sight is a quarter-round blade fixed to the barrel; the rear sight is a “V” notch cut into the topstrap.
Grips & Stock Condition
One-piece smooth walnut grip with the “1880 / D.A.L.” cartouche on the left side. The right-side cartouche has worn away. Minor corner losses, scattered nicks, dings, and age-darkened marks remain. Overall grip condition: Very Good (Antique).
Finish & Metal Condition
Finish: Blue & Case Color (original)
This revolver retains about 15 % of its metal finish. Bluing is strongest beneath the ejector-rod housing. Surfaces display a mottled mix of patina, pitting, and light oxidation typical of service use. Screw heads range from sharp to lightly marred; markings remain clear. Overall condition: Very Good as Antique.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Gray with strong rifling, light-to-moderate pitting and scabbing.
Mechanics: Cylinder bushing seized; action functions correctly; cylinder locks up with minor side-to-side play; third click inaudible.
This firearm has not been test-fired. A professional cleaning and inspection are recommended before use.
Note: Most antique firearms fired with black powder exhibit bore erosion. Under NRA Antique Firearm Standards, bore wear does not significantly affect collectability.
Included Documentation & Accessories
Letter of Authenticity from John A. Kopec stating: “It is my opinion that it is totally authentic in every respect.”
Personal note from Mr. Kopec expressing purchase interest.
These documents confirm provenance and add significant collector value.
Historical Contex
Colt’s Single Action Army became the official U.S. sidearm from 1873 through 1892 and an enduring icon of the American frontier. Cavalry-issue revolvers like this example, inspected by Lt. Lyle and sub-inspector Clark, armed soldiers, scouts, and officers during the final decades of the 19th century. Surviving revolvers with visible inspector marks and matching serials represent tangible artifacts of that period.
Our Assessment
This 1880 Colt 1873 Cavalry Model remains a strong representative of U.S.-inspected service revolvers. Matching numbers, original finish remnants, a legible Lt. Lyle cartouche, and a Kopec LOA make it a prime piece for collectors focused on authenticity over restoration. It’s a historically verified revolver that embodies the craftsmanship and history of the Colt Single Action Army.
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