"LOT 5 ESCAPEE", US INSPECTED COMMERCIAL SHIPPED

COLT SAA REVOLVER FROM WITHIN THE "PRIME" CUSTER RANGE. Cal. 45 Colt. S# 5429. This revolver was mfg in May 1874 and rescued from the Custer battlefield by never actually being there. While initially "US" inspected and intended for shipment in Lot 5, "Prime Range" this revolver, along with two other military inspected revolvers, was removed from military production to fulfill a commercial order. Included correspondence with Colt historian Beverly Haynes shows that this revolver ended up being shipped to either Spies Kissam & Co. or Schuyler, Hartley & Graham. Bbl. 7 1/2" with low profile blade front sight and one line script bbl address. Matching numbers on frame, bbl, cyl, triggerguard frame & butt. One piece replacement walnut grip. Left side of frame stamped "US". UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: letter from William Gary to David Berenson discussing this revolver. John A. Kopec letter of authenticity. CONDITION: revolver has been artificially aged with cleaned, heavy pitting and now has an overall brown/patina appearance along with numerous dents and dings. Ejector housing stud on bbl is missing. Replaced ejector dowel. Base pin screw hole has been undercut. Base pin retaining screw is a replacement. Grip has been heavily sanded and refinished. Mechanics in need of attention, but will still hold at full cock. Bore is dark with intact rifling. PROVENANCE: ex- William A Gary collection, Estate collection of David Berenson. (01-29606/BH). ANTIQUE. $2,000-3,000.