Abstract: A method and apparatus for a reciprocating pump, specifically, a single acting fluid or slurry pump piston. The piston assembly includes a reserve seal that is operable and adapted to maintain a pump operation in the event of a primary piston seal failure. The reserve seal allows the communication of the primary piston seal failure to a pump operator or worker so that they may take timely remedial measures, thereby avoiding the numerous consequences of a complete piston failure. The piston assembly includes an indicator that is adapted to communicate to the pump operator or worker that the primary piston seal has failed.