Serial number 240 makes this 1874 Colt Single Action Army one of the earliest Cavalry Model revolvers known, chambered in .45 Colt with the 7 1/2-inch barrel. Very little original finish remains; faint case colors survive only in sheltered areas. The grips rate very good and show the inspector cartouche on the left panel, and the name ED SHAW is lightly scratched into the butt. A letter from one of its early owners explains that he cut his name there at age 12, when the gun was his father's.

It also stays in original cavalry configuration, which few guns this early do, since most were later rebuilt as artillery models. Ainsworth inspection begins around serial 180, with reports as low as 162. A letter from Colt authority John Kopec confirms authenticity, suggests possible issue to the 6th Cavalry, and carries his Gold Seal, which he reserves for the best US martial Colts he examines. For a Texas collector this is a display piece, not a working sidearm.

Key features

• Serial number 240, made in 1874
• .45 Colt, 7 1/2-inch cavalry barrel
• Completely original, cartouche visible on left grip
• John Kopec letter with Gold Seal
• Family letter explains the ED SHAW scratching

This revolver ships to the Texas FFL dealer you name at checkout, where a buyer 21 or older shows photo ID, fills in Form 4473 and clears the NICS check before taking it home.