"COLT SINGLE ACTION ARTILLERY ARMY REVOLVER. SN 10921. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 5-1/2" bbl, 1-line block letter address with 2-line patent dates and a small "US" on left side of frame. It has 1-pc walnut grip with "RAC" inspector initials on bottom of left side. Frame is numbered "10921". Trigger guard "1032" with a small "A" inspector stamp and backstrap number "31422". Bbl has number "3680" with "DFC" inspector mark while cylinder is numbered "0407" with "DFC" inspector mark. This is a typical mismatched artillery from an arsenal re-work. Accompanied by a letter from John Kopec regarding a possible re-work of Colt artilleries at Benicia Arsenal. Also included is a Springfield research service letter identifying this revolver as having been issued to 1st Sgt. William H. Blatchley, a member of Company F, 20th Kansas Volunteer Infantry during the Philippine Insurrection. He joined the 20th Kansas Infantry in May 1898 and was mustered out in October 1899. During his service in Philippines, he & his unit were engaged in numerous fights & skirmishes, one of which Sgt. Blatchley is mentioned by name. Also included is a copy of Sgt. Blatchley's Philippine service & battles in which he participated. There is a large packet of information regarding the 20th Kansas including a copy of a photograph which shows 1st Sgt. Blatchley. It should be noted that in this photograph he is seated in the front row with other sergeants who have several service hash marks indicating longer service which Sgt. Blatchley does not have, although technically as 1st Sgt. he outranks them. This indicates that Sgt. Blatchley may have been promoted for merit rather than longevity. Also included is Sgt. Blatchley's application for pension. He was born May 6, 1878 in Illinois & died May 26, 1941 in Detroit, Michigan. CONDITION: Very good to fine. Bbl retains 60-70% thin orig blue with good feathers around front sight. Frame retains 15-20% faded case colors being a gray patina from silvered case colors. Grip frame has traces of blue being mostly a gray patina. Most of screws have slipped slots. Grip is sound with chipped toes and retains a dark hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with a spot or two of light pitting. 4-33319 JR329 (10,000-15,000)"
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