Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Tuesday, October 31, 2017  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Extraordinary Firearms Auction Day 1

Tuesday, October 31, 2017  |  10:00 AM Eastern
Auction closed.
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We are extremely pleased to offer a large number of important firearms, many
from renowned private collections featuring quality, rarity and diversity.

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FINE COLT MODEL 1860 CIVILIAN ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1150 (Sale Order: 151 of 755)      

SN 133952. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 8? rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked "COLTS PATENT" and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked "44 Cal.". Frame is 3-screw type, cut for shoulder stock. Cylinder is rebated and has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and blued steel backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. This gun is interesting in that most metal parts have government inspection marks along with the now factory varnished grips show that this gun was military contract originally. The punch mark on left side of frame in shoulder stock cut-out is thought to show condemnation and the non-inspected cylinder was never SNd. Col. Colt was never one to waste government contract over-run or non-accepted parts. Colt apparently just re-polished and finished this Army for private purchase. Regardless, this is a very fine Colt Army revolver made at the height of the Civil War in late 1863, retaining much orig finish and crisp action, sold in civilian market, possibly to a Civil War officer. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun appears orig and all matching with exception of un-serialized wedge, replaced wedge screw and as noted, orig contemporary un-serialized cylinder. Bbl and cylinder retain 30-40% bright orig blue, especially in protected areas with balance plum. Frame, hammer and loading assembly retain strong muted case colors with balance. Silver/grey. Stocks are well fit with light edge wear and scattered cosmetic blemishes. 52328-20 JS
SN 133952. Cal. 44. Blue and color case hardened with 8? rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. Left side of frame is marked "COLTS ...morePATENT" and left shoulder of trigger guard is marked "44 Cal.". Frame is 3-screw type, cut for shoulder stock. Cylinder is rebated and has the Ormsby Naval battle scene roll marking. The silver plated brass trigger guard and blued steel backstrap contain a varnished 1-pc walnut grip with last four digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. This gun is interesting in that most metal parts have government inspection marks along with the now factory varnished grips show that this gun was military contract originally. The punch mark on left side of frame in shoulder stock cut-out is thought to show condemnation and the non-inspected cylinder was never SNd. Col. Colt was never one to waste government contract over-run or non-accepted parts. Colt apparently just re-polished and finished this Army for private purchase. Regardless, this is a very fine Colt Army revolver made at the height of the Civil War in late 1863, retaining much orig finish and crisp action, sold in civilian market, possibly to a Civil War officer. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun appears orig and all matching with exception of un-serialized wedge, replaced wedge screw and as noted, orig contemporary un-serialized cylinder. Bbl and cylinder retain 30-40% bright orig blue, especially in protected areas with balance plum. Frame, hammer and loading assembly retain strong muted case colors with balance. Silver/grey. Stocks are well fit with light edge wear and scattered cosmetic blemishes. 52328-20 JS

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EXTRAORDINARY CASED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.

Lot # 1151 (Sale Order: 152 of 755)      

SN 4197. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2" rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. It has "COLTS PATENT" on left side of frame and Cal. marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Cylinder is half fluted and rebated with 5 chambers and all 5 safety pins serviceable. The silver plated trigger guard and back strap contain a nicely figured, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip that has the SN in back strap channel. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany Colt casing compartmentalized in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided eagle and stars "E PLURIBUS UNUM" flask, a blued steel 2-cavity bullet and ball "COLT'S PATENT" mold with sprue cutter that is marked on right side "36P", an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin of Eley's caps and a functioning key. Given that this revolver was produced during the early years of the Civil War and survived in unused condition is just short of miraculous. Then to further survive the great Manifest Destiny westward expansion still in unused condition, is even more astounding. Most of this model revolver saw hard service throughout the Civil War and on the American frontier and are rarely ever found with much orig finish. They remained in service well into the 1870s and even 1880s until supplanted by the "new" cartridge revolvers. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge and grip, probably un-fired. Bbl retains about 65-70% dark glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. The rammer and handle retain brilliant, vivid case colors as does the frame and hammer. The cylinder retains about 90-92% dark glossy orig blue with a few flaked spots and retains about all of its orig blue on it's front face and in chambers. All 5 safety pins are serviceable. The trigger guard and back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating with one small scrape on front strap, exposing brass. Back strap silver is slightly thinned. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and no discernible flaws and retains virtually all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has one grain check in lid, otherwise is completely sound with very minor storage and handling mars in the finish and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Interior is heavily faded with moderate soil with one slightly loose partition. Flask is crisp, retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish. Mold is equally new with some minor flaking on right handle. Cap tin shows soil and staining to the label. Altogether an outstanding cased set that would be difficult to duplicate. 52267-1
SN 4197. Cal. 36. Blue and color case hardened with 4-1/2" rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address. It has "COLTS PATENT" on left side of ...moreframe and Cal. marking on left shoulder of trigger guard. Cylinder is half fluted and rebated with 5 chambers and all 5 safety pins serviceable. The silver plated trigger guard and back strap contain a nicely figured, varnished, 1-pc walnut grip that has the SN in back strap channel. Accompanied by an orig burgundy velvet lined mahogany Colt casing compartmentalized in the bottom for the revolver, a dbl sided eagle and stars "E PLURIBUS UNUM" flask, a blued steel 2-cavity bullet and ball "COLT'S PATENT" mold with sprue cutter that is marked on right side "36P", an L-shaped nipple wrench, a lacquered tin of Eley's caps and a functioning key. Given that this revolver was produced during the early years of the Civil War and survived in unused condition is just short of miraculous. Then to further survive the great Manifest Destiny westward expansion still in unused condition, is even more astounding. Most of this model revolver saw hard service throughout the Civil War and on the American frontier and are rarely ever found with much orig finish. They remained in service well into the 1870s and even 1880s until supplanted by the "new" cartridge revolvers. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching including wedge and grip, probably un-fired. Bbl retains about 65-70% dark glossy orig blue with the loss areas flaked, not worn, to a medium patina. The rammer and handle retain brilliant, vivid case colors as does the frame and hammer. The cylinder retains about 90-92% dark glossy orig blue with a few flaked spots and retains about all of its orig blue on it's front face and in chambers. All 5 safety pins are serviceable. The trigger guard and back strap retain virtually all of their orig silver plating with one small scrape on front strap, exposing brass. Back strap silver is slightly thinned. Grip is crisp with sharp edges and no discernible flaws and retains virtually all of its bright orig varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Case has one grain check in lid, otherwise is completely sound with very minor storage and handling mars in the finish and retains virtually all of its orig factory varnish. Interior is heavily faded with moderate soil with one slightly loose partition. Flask is crisp, retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish. Mold is equally new with some minor flaking on right handle. Cap tin shows soil and staining to the label. Altogether an outstanding cased set that would be difficult to duplicate. 52267-1

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EXCELLENT 1ST YEAR PRODUCTION CIVIL WAR 5-1/2? COLT MODEL

Lot # 1152 (Sale Order: 153 of 755)      

1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 1025. Cal. 36. This gun conforms to other Model 1862 revolvers being blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2? rnd bbl, brass pin front sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame has a small "COLT'S PATENT". Brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc varnished walnut grip. Cylinder is typical half-flutes rebated and has a patent date in one flute. This gun was made in 1861 and rarely are first year production Hartford address guns found in such fine, almost new condition, especially with very fine orig with Colt's Patent 2-cavity bullet mold. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Excellent overall, appears all matching though not disassembled as gun appears to be in its orig configuration, tight and well fit. Bbl and cylinder retain about 90% orig bright blue with staining and pitted area on right side of bbl as can be seen in photos. Frame, loading assembly and hammer retain most of their orig case colors, with balance turning silver/blue. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 90% of their orig silver plating with some staining and freckling. Grip is sound, solid and well-fit retaining about 95% of its orig bright varnish with edge wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with crisp rifling. Accompanying mold retains over 90% orig thinning dull blue finish with scattered staining, pitting and light tack marks. 52328-14 JS
1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER. SN 1025. Cal. 36. This gun conforms to other Model 1862 revolvers being blue and color case hardened with 5-1/2? rnd bbl, brass pin front...more sight and 1-line Hartford address. Left side of frame has a small "COLT'S PATENT". Brass trigger guard and backstrap contain a 1-pc varnished walnut grip. Cylinder is typical half-flutes rebated and has a patent date in one flute. This gun was made in 1861 and rarely are first year production Hartford address guns found in such fine, almost new condition, especially with very fine orig with Colt's Patent 2-cavity bullet mold. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Excellent overall, appears all matching though not disassembled as gun appears to be in its orig configuration, tight and well fit. Bbl and cylinder retain about 90% orig bright blue with staining and pitted area on right side of bbl as can be seen in photos. Frame, loading assembly and hammer retain most of their orig case colors, with balance turning silver/blue. Trigger guard and backstrap retain about 90% of their orig silver plating with some staining and freckling. Grip is sound, solid and well-fit retaining about 95% of its orig bright varnish with edge wear. Mechanics are fine, bright shiny bore with crisp rifling. Accompanying mold retains over 90% orig thinning dull blue finish with scattered staining, pitting and light tack marks. 52328-14 JS

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RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.

Lot # 1153 (Sale Order: 154 of 755)      

SN 4765. Cal. 36. Silver plated. Standard configuration with longest and most desirable 6-1/2" rnd bbl 1-line New York address. Gun finely engraved on bbl, cylinder, frame, hammer, trigger guard and backstrap. Gun has matching SNs with small "E"s stamped adjacent denoting engraving. This gun was made in 1861 at the start of the Civil War. This is an aesthetically pleasing gun, popular with Civil War officers, especially in this longer bbl length. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun appears orig as used. SNs matching except wedge "4904" and grips which have a partially discernible 4-digit number inked that do not match "4765". Gun retains about half of its orig silver plate with staining and pitting. Engraving and markings all discernible. Grips retain about 80% of a bright varnished finish. Mechanically sound with crisp discernible rifled bore. 52328-15 JS
SN 4765. Cal. 36. Silver plated. Standard configuration with longest and most desirable 6-1/2" rnd bbl 1-line New York address. Gun finely engraved on bbl, cylinder, fram...moree, hammer, trigger guard and backstrap. Gun has matching SNs with small "E"s stamped adjacent denoting engraving. This gun was made in 1861 at the start of the Civil War. This is an aesthetically pleasing gun, popular with Civil War officers, especially in this longer bbl length. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun appears orig as used. SNs matching except wedge "4904" and grips which have a partially discernible 4-digit number inked that do not match "4765". Gun retains about half of its orig silver plate with staining and pitting. Engraving and markings all discernible. Grips retain about 80% of a bright varnished finish. Mechanically sound with crisp discernible rifled bore. 52328-15 JS

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RARE 2-DIGIT 6-1/2" COLT MODEL 1862 POLICE PERCUSSION REVOLVER.

Lot # 1154 (Sale Order: 155 of 755)      

SN 50. Cal. 36. Standard configuration with 6-1/2" rnd bbl, Hartford address, "COLT'S PATENT" on left side of frame. Cylinder is half-fluted and rebated with 5-chambers. This gun was made early in 1861, at onset of Civil War. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Good overall. Markings are all discernible, though bbl address is week as is patent found in cylinder flute. Gun is all matching including wedge and grips. There is a restoration to last 5/8" of loading arm tip and catch. Metal overall is plum/grey with staining and pitting. Trigger guard and backstrap have strong traces of orig silver plate. Grips are well fit with traces of orig factory varnish. Mechanically gun is functional, though sluggish with well defined rifling in bore. 52328-16 JS
SN 50. Cal. 36. Standard configuration with 6-1/2" rnd bbl, Hartford address, "COLT'S PATENT" on left side of frame. Cylinder is half-fluted and rebated with 5-chambers. ...moreThis gun was made early in 1861, at onset of Civil War. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Good overall. Markings are all discernible, though bbl address is week as is patent found in cylinder flute. Gun is all matching including wedge and grips. There is a restoration to last 5/8" of loading arm tip and catch. Metal overall is plum/grey with staining and pitting. Trigger guard and backstrap have strong traces of orig silver plate. Grips are well fit with traces of orig factory varnish. Mechanically gun is functional, though sluggish with well defined rifling in bore. 52328-16 JS

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SCARCE COLT MODEL 1871/72 OPEN TOP SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER

Lot # 1155 (Sale Order: 156 of 755)      

Please Note (10/17/2017): This revolver is a Richards-Mason conversion of the 1860 Army, not a 1871/72 open top revolver as stated in the catalog. IDENTIFIED TO A MAN WANTED FOR MURDER. SN 6923. Cal. 44 Colt. Usual configuration with 8" rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left shoulder trigger guard is marked "44 CAL". Cylinder is usual rebated style with re-rolled Ormsby naval battle scene marking. SNs on the bbl, frame, trigger guard and buttstrap are all matching which last 3 digits of matching number on the cylinder. Backstrap channel of the grip has a coating of dark dried oil with obscures any numbers present. Mounted with varnished 1-pc walnut grip that has had both toes replaced. Revolver has been cleaned with the appearance of having been on a wire wheel. There were about 7,000 of these revolvers produced 1872-1873. Accompanied by a letter bearing the signature of George F. White, US Marshal, Southern District of Georgia, dated February 5, 1913. This letter states in effect that this revolver was taken from the body of L. L. Williams who was being served papers by Mr. White. Apparently Mr. Williams resisted arrest and was killed by Deputy US Marshal J.A. Kelly. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip as noted above. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned, bright metal finish with fine pitting. Grip, with its repaired toes is otherwise sound showing light to moderate edge wear and retains most of its bright, custom varnish finish. Wedge appears to be an un-numbered replacement and the wedge screw is battered. Ejector rod head is a replacement. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 52487-1 JRL
Please Note (10/17/2017): This revolver is a Richards-Mason conversion of the 1860 Army, not a 1871/72 open top revolver as stated in the catalog. IDENTIFIED TO A MAN WAN...moreTED FOR MURDER. SN 6923. Cal. 44 Colt. Usual configuration with 8" rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and left shoulder trigger guard is marked "44 CAL". Cylinder is usual rebated style with re-rolled Ormsby naval battle scene marking. SNs on the bbl, frame, trigger guard and buttstrap are all matching which last 3 digits of matching number on the cylinder. Backstrap channel of the grip has a coating of dark dried oil with obscures any numbers present. Mounted with varnished 1-pc walnut grip that has had both toes replaced. Revolver has been cleaned with the appearance of having been on a wire wheel. There were about 7,000 of these revolvers produced 1872-1873. Accompanied by a letter bearing the signature of George F. White, US Marshal, Southern District of Georgia, dated February 5, 1913. This letter states in effect that this revolver was taken from the body of L. L. Williams who was being served papers by Mr. White. Apparently Mr. Williams resisted arrest and was killed by Deputy US Marshal J.A. Kelly. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip as noted above. No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned, bright metal finish with fine pitting. Grip, with its repaired toes is otherwise sound showing light to moderate edge wear and retains most of its bright, custom varnish finish. Wedge appears to be an un-numbered replacement and the wedge screw is battered. Ejector rod head is a replacement. Mechanics are fine, strong dark bore. 52487-1 JRL

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COLT MODEL 1871/72 OPEN TOP SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER.

Lot # 1156 (Sale Order: 157 of 755)      

Please Note (10/26/2017): Barrel has been professionally stretched. SN 3108. Cal. 44RF Henry. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2" rnd bbl, German silver front sight and 1-line New-York U.S. America address with dashes and an integral rear sight at the forcing cone end of the bbl. Right side of bbl lug is mounted with an ejector rod housing with bull's eye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and hammer has firing pin attached with two rivets to left side of hammer nose. Blued steel trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip. Only about 7,000 of these rare revolvers were produced in the period 1872-73. This predecessor of the venerable single action army, although a fine revolver in its own right, never gained strong popularity in the U.S. because the cartridge revolvers had already emerged on the scene making the rimfire cartridge obsolete. The majority of these revolvers were sold into Mexico and Latin America where the 44RF Henry cartridge was still popular and in extensive use. They are rarely found in orig configuration with any orig finish at all given their rough frontier service under extremely harsh conditions with little or no maintenance. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish of the highest quality with high polish brilliant blues and strong bright case colors. Grip is equally new with one or two minor nicks. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 52328-22
Please Note (10/26/2017): Barrel has been professionally stretched. SN 3108. Cal. 44RF Henry. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2" rnd bbl, German silver front sight ...moreand 1-line New-York U.S. America address with dashes and an integral rear sight at the forcing cone end of the bbl. Right side of bbl lug is mounted with an ejector rod housing with bull's eye ejector rod head. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and hammer has firing pin attached with two rivets to left side of hammer nose. Blued steel trigger guard & back strap contain a 1-pc walnut grip. Only about 7,000 of these rare revolvers were produced in the period 1872-73. This predecessor of the venerable single action army, although a fine revolver in its own right, never gained strong popularity in the U.S. because the cartridge revolvers had already emerged on the scene making the rimfire cartridge obsolete. The majority of these revolvers were sold into Mexico and Latin America where the 44RF Henry cartridge was still popular and in extensive use. They are rarely found in orig configuration with any orig finish at all given their rough frontier service under extremely harsh conditions with little or no maintenance. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains about all of a fine professionally restored finish of the highest quality with high polish brilliant blues and strong bright case colors. Grip is equally new with one or two minor nicks. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. 52328-22

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EXTREMELY RARE ENGRAVED AND NICKEL PLATED COLT MEDIUM FRAME

Lot # 1157 (Sale Order: 158 of 755)      

LIGHTNING RIFLE THAT BELONGED TO PORFIRIO DIAZ. SN 3543. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Full nickel finish with 20" bbl, full magazine and barleycorn front sight with blued, reverse mounted 900 yard ladder rear sight. Mounted with exceptional Italian walnut buttstock that has checkered straight grip and carbine buttplate without trap. Left side of receiver has a stud & ring and the trigger guard has a safety. Forearm is of 2 pieces, double Schnable checkered hard rubber with the Rampant Colt trademark logo on each side. Underneath top tang has matching SN with matching SN in pencil on rear face of buttstock, under the buttplate and also inside the toe of buttplate. Carbine is incredibly engraved by master engraver Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage on the receiver & top tang. Engraving consists of the large vignette of a cowboy, that resembles Buffalo Bill Cody, roping a bull buffalo in a prairie scene on the left side, a standing bull elk on the right side and the engraved Rampant Colt logo on top rear of the receiver. All the vignettes are surrounded by extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine pearled background. The areas in front & behind the loading gate recess have extremely fine diamond & dot patterns with a matching diamond pattern over the receiver ring. Each side of the front edge of the receiver is engraved in a small shell pattern. Top tang is engraved with a fan pattern around the hammer slot with foliate arabesque patterns down the tang. Trigger plate & trigger bow are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns and geometric patterns with smaller patterns on the bottom tang. Bottom tang is engraved in period script, also by Mr. Helfricht "Porf. Diaz". Buttplate tang & heel are engraved to match. This carbine is pictured, both sides & bottom tang, in full color on page 493 ofThe Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson, in the Cuno Helfricht section of that publication. The medium frame Lightning rifle was Colt's first attempt at producing a pump action firearm. They made almost 90,000 between 1884-1902. Of that number only a limited few were carbines and of those exceedingly few were so elaborately engraved with special plating. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. Bbl & magazine tube retain 97-98% strong orig nickel with some fine pimpling in a couple of spots on the bbl. Receiver retains about 90% strong orig nickel with losses from flaking, not wear on the right side. Top & bottom tangs, trigger guard & trigger plate retain virtually all of their strong, orig nickel. Buttplate retains about 60% orig nickel with the losses from flaking not wear. Buttstock has handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains about 90% strong orig varnish. Forearm has a couple tiny bruises on the left rear edge and shows light diamond point wear, turned chocolate on the left side. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with sharp rifling and moderate pitting. 52428-1 JRL
LIGHTNING RIFLE THAT BELONGED TO PORFIRIO DIAZ. SN 3543. Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). Full nickel finish with 20" bbl, full magazine and barleycorn front sight with blued, revers...moree mounted 900 yard ladder rear sight. Mounted with exceptional Italian walnut buttstock that has checkered straight grip and carbine buttplate without trap. Left side of receiver has a stud & ring and the trigger guard has a safety. Forearm is of 2 pieces, double Schnable checkered hard rubber with the Rampant Colt trademark logo on each side. Underneath top tang has matching SN with matching SN in pencil on rear face of buttstock, under the buttplate and also inside the toe of buttplate. Carbine is incredibly engraved by master engraver Cuno Helfricht with about full coverage on the receiver & top tang. Engraving consists of the large vignette of a cowboy, that resembles Buffalo Bill Cody, roping a bull buffalo in a prairie scene on the left side, a standing bull elk on the right side and the engraved Rampant Colt logo on top rear of the receiver. All the vignettes are surrounded by extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with extremely fine pearled background. The areas in front & behind the loading gate recess have extremely fine diamond & dot patterns with a matching diamond pattern over the receiver ring. Each side of the front edge of the receiver is engraved in a small shell pattern. Top tang is engraved with a fan pattern around the hammer slot with foliate arabesque patterns down the tang. Trigger plate & trigger bow are engraved in foliate arabesque patterns and geometric patterns with smaller patterns on the bottom tang. Bottom tang is engraved in period script, also by Mr. Helfricht "Porf. Diaz". Buttplate tang & heel are engraved to match. This carbine is pictured, both sides & bottom tang, in full color on page 493 ofThe Colt Engraving Book Volume One, Wilson, in the Cuno Helfricht section of that publication. The medium frame Lightning rifle was Colt's first attempt at producing a pump action firearm. They made almost 90,000 between 1884-1902. Of that number only a limited few were carbines and of those exceedingly few were so elaborately engraved with special plating. CONDITION: Very fine to extremely fine, all matching. Bbl & magazine tube retain 97-98% strong orig nickel with some fine pimpling in a couple of spots on the bbl. Receiver retains about 90% strong orig nickel with losses from flaking, not wear on the right side. Top & bottom tangs, trigger guard & trigger plate retain virtually all of their strong, orig nickel. Buttplate retains about 60% orig nickel with the losses from flaking not wear. Buttstock has handling and storage nicks & scratches and retains about 90% strong orig varnish. Forearm has a couple tiny bruises on the left rear edge and shows light diamond point wear, turned chocolate on the left side. Mechanics are crisp, strong bore with sharp rifling and moderate pitting. 52428-1 JRL

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*EXTREMELY RARE TRANSITIONAL COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER IN

Lot # 1158 (Sale Order: 159 of 755)      

A SCARCE CALIBER FACTORY ENGRAVED BY WILBUR GLAHN WITH IVORY GRIPS AND FACTORY LETTER. SN 341804. Cal. 44 Russian & S&W Special. Nickel finish with 5-1/2" bbl, full thick front sight with V-notch rear sight in the top strap. Left side of the bbl has the roll marked caliber "RUSSIAN AND S&W SPECIAL 44". Left front side of frame has 2-line 3-patent dates and the Rampant Colt trademark. Mounted with very beautiful 2-pc ivory grips that have deep left & right Colt medallions. SN was observed on the bottom front of frame and on the left side of the front & backstraps under the grip. Rear face of the cylinder has last 4 digits of matching SN. This revolver is beautifully engraved by Wilbur Glahn in about B-style which consists of about 50% coverage extremely well executed foliate arabesque patterns with nearly full coverage on the frame, recoil shield & loading gate. Top strap is engraved in extremely well executed leaf & vine patterns with beautiful, simple arabesque patterns on the bbl which extend from the frame to the front sight, surrounding the 1-line block letter address. Ejector housing is engraved with a snake pattern in the top gullet with extremely well executed geometric patterns on the outer radius. Each side of the frame bbl boss is engraved with Mr. Glahn's distinctive V-shape pattern which are also found at the top of the backstrap and on the heel & toe of the grip frame. Buttstrap is engraved in a light arabesque pattern with an extremely detailed hunters star on the trigger bow. Cylinder is engraved to match with a continuous running foliate arabesque pattern between & behind the flutes. Rear edge of the cylinder has a double wavy line border pattern. Rear edges of the frame on each side of the hammer slot are engraved in feather patterns with very nicely shaded background. Wilbur Glahn began working for Colt in 1919 and was greatly influenced by the master engraver Cuno Helfricht which shows in much of the extremely fine detail found on this revolver, particularly in the very fine shading & crisp, sharp cuts. The pearled background found in the engraving on the frame is very consistent and even, also an influence by Mr. Helfricht which was not so noticeable on Mr. Glahn's later work. The leaf & vine patterns on the top strap of this revolver and the arabesque patterns on the bbl are also indicative of Mr. Helfricht's influence and are reminiscent of the early leaf & vine patterns found on his work on early percussion Colt's. A review of the bookColt Engraving, Wilson, in the Wilbur Glahn section, disclosed several other similarly engraved revolvers, but few with such simple artistic beauty as found on this one. Accompanied by a Colt Factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 44 S&W, with 5-1/2" bbl, nickel finish, ivory stocks & factory engraved, shipped to Baker, Hamilton, Pacific Co., San Francisco, CA / Ellery Arms Co. on May 9, 1921 in a 1-gun shipment. Also accompanied by a 1-page letter by renowned Colt Historian, author & researcher, the late R.L. Wilson wherein he discusses the Cuno Helfricht / Wilbur Glahn transition engraved pieces which he states are the best work by Mr. Glahn. A very similar example of this rare transitional work is seen in Wilson & Hables book of Colt pistols on page 216 and 217 further describing the rarity of these embellished arms. This is truly an exceptional work by Mr. Glahn.Special Note:This item contains plant or animal properties that may be covered by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We have taken care to ensure that this item meets the standard for sale under the ESA. However, certain states and other countries have laws that are more restrictive than the ESA. It is the bidder's responsibility to ensure that it is lawful to purchase or transport this item into their state, and to obtain the necessary import and export approvals. Delay or failure to obtain any such permit or approval does not relieve the buyer of paying for the item and consummating the purchase. PROVENANCE: Vince Sepulveda Collection. CONDITION: Excellent plus, all matching . Overall retains about 99% plus crisp, orig nickel with only a very light cylinder line and a couple small spots of flaking under the grips. Grips are excellent with a few age lines and show a beautiful golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, new & unfired. Possibly a one of one ever produced. 52598-1 C&R; ESA

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*EXTREMELY RARE FACTORY ENGRAVED COLT OFFICER'S MODEL FLAT TOP

Lot # 1159 (Sale Order: 160 of 755)      

TARGET REVOLVER WITH BOX AND FACTORY LETTER. SN 20240. Cal 22. Blue finish with 6" tapered rnd bbl. Adjustable Patridge target front sight and adjustable rear sight in a dovetail in the top flat of the frame. Bbl has standard for the period 2-line address on top and is marked "COLT OFFICERS/MODEL .22 LONG RIFLE" on the left side. Left side plate has the Colt trademark Rampant Colt. Trigger is checkered and all blue finish while the hammer is polished bright on the sides with blued top & rear edges. Top flat of the frame and rear of the frame are matte finish and the backstrap is checkered. Revolver is engraved by William Gough with class "B" coverage of about 60% of the revolvers surface. Engraving consists of fine arabesque scrolls with pearled background. Revolver is mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips that have left & right Rampant Colt silver medallions and a raised carved eagle on the right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 22 with 6" bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, class "B" engraving and shipped to Loan Account,(These rare loan account guns were the Colt Exhibition guns and were shipped for display purposes to selected and important Colt Dealers to exhibit the BEST Colt had to offer.) Spaulding W. Arms, Salt Lake City, Utah on May 31, 1938 in a one gun shipment. Remarks section indicates that the revolver was returned to the factory on Feb 1, 1939 and shipped 6 additional times to businesses in Albany, NY, Indianapolis, IN, Jamestown, NY, Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL and Jenkintown, PA and was finally sold on April 5, 1940 to the Bacharach Raisin Company in Baltimore, MD. Also accompanied by an orig burgundy hinged lid cardboard box with black & white end label identifying this revolver. Additionally there are 3 black & white overlabels, 2 on the end of the lid "TARGET" and "PATRIDGE SIGHTS". The 3rd label is diagonally over the top "ENGRAVED" from which "EN" is missing. This exact revolver is pictured on page 330 ofThe Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson and on page 306 ofColt Pistols, Wilson & Hable wherein they state that it is "one of the most traveled of sample guns". Wilson also states that this box was shipped 6 or 7 times and shows the travel wear but protected the gun during its travels. To say that this revolver is beautiful is a gross understatement. It is exceptionally beautiful and exceedingly rare. Accompanied by a copy of the Wilson & Hable book in which this outstanding revolver is pictured. PROVENANCE: R.E. Hable Collection, Vince Sepulveda Collection. CONDITION: Excellent, appears to be new and unfired showing no evidence whatsoever of having been fired. There is only the most faint cylinder line and a small spot or two on left side of the trigger. Grips are excellent, showing great fire and color. Box has worn edges and a couple of broken corners with the right end of the top partially detached, otherwise it is intact with mostly legible labels. This is the rare opportunity to own one of the most rare Colt's extant. 52329-2 C&R
TARGET REVOLVER WITH BOX AND FACTORY LETTER. SN 20240. Cal 22. Blue finish with 6" tapered rnd bbl. Adjustable Patridge target front sight and adjustable rear sight in a ...moredovetail in the top flat of the frame. Bbl has standard for the period 2-line address on top and is marked "COLT OFFICERS/MODEL .22 LONG RIFLE" on the left side. Left side plate has the Colt trademark Rampant Colt. Trigger is checkered and all blue finish while the hammer is polished bright on the sides with blued top & rear edges. Top flat of the frame and rear of the frame are matte finish and the backstrap is checkered. Revolver is engraved by William Gough with class "B" coverage of about 60% of the revolvers surface. Engraving consists of fine arabesque scrolls with pearled background. Revolver is mounted with factory 2-pc pearl grips that have left & right Rampant Colt silver medallions and a raised carved eagle on the right side. Accompanied by a Colt factory letter which identifies this revolver in caliber 22 with 6" bbl, blue finish, pearl stocks, class "B" engraving and shipped to Loan Account,(These rare loan account guns were the Colt Exhibition guns and were shipped for display purposes to selected and important Colt Dealers to exhibit the BEST Colt had to offer.) Spaulding W. Arms, Salt Lake City, Utah on May 31, 1938 in a one gun shipment. Remarks section indicates that the revolver was returned to the factory on Feb 1, 1939 and shipped 6 additional times to businesses in Albany, NY, Indianapolis, IN, Jamestown, NY, Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL and Jenkintown, PA and was finally sold on April 5, 1940 to the Bacharach Raisin Company in Baltimore, MD. Also accompanied by an orig burgundy hinged lid cardboard box with black & white end label identifying this revolver. Additionally there are 3 black & white overlabels, 2 on the end of the lid "TARGET" and "PATRIDGE SIGHTS". The 3rd label is diagonally over the top "ENGRAVED" from which "EN" is missing. This exact revolver is pictured on page 330 ofThe Book of Colt Engraving, Wilson and on page 306 ofColt Pistols, Wilson & Hable wherein they state that it is "one of the most traveled of sample guns". Wilson also states that this box was shipped 6 or 7 times and shows the travel wear but protected the gun during its travels. To say that this revolver is beautiful is a gross understatement. It is exceptionally beautiful and exceedingly rare. Accompanied by a copy of the Wilson & Hable book in which this outstanding revolver is pictured. PROVENANCE: R.E. Hable Collection, Vince Sepulveda Collection. CONDITION: Excellent, appears to be new and unfired showing no evidence whatsoever of having been fired. There is only the most faint cylinder line and a small spot or two on left side of the trigger. Grips are excellent, showing great fire and color. Box has worn edges and a couple of broken corners with the right end of the top partially detached, otherwise it is intact with mostly legible labels. This is the rare opportunity to own one of the most rare Colt's extant. 52329-2 C&R

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VERY RARE CUSTER BATTLEFIELD COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER

Lot # 1160 (Sale Order: 161 of 755)      

IDENTIFIED TO SIOUX INDIAN RUNS-THE-ENEMY. SN 7087. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line script letter address that had "U.S.A." removed during the period of use. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and has also had "U.S." removed from the frame. Ejector housing is first type with nickel plated bull's eye ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends and slightly battered head. Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has partially obliterated matching SN in the backstrap channel. Only the "8" & "7" are completely legible. Left side of grip has the partial outline of an inspector's cartouche with partially legible "O" for Orville W. Ainsworth. There are small "A" inspector initials on the bbl, trigger guard, cyl & backstrap. Bottom edge of grip is battered & worn, obliterating the inspector initial there. Matching SN is also found on bottom of bbl under ejector housing & on the cylinder. This revolver appears to have been from 1,000 Colts of Lot 7, shipped in May 1874, 166 of which where issued to the 7th Cavalry. A previous owner spent an incredible amount of time studying notes, descriptions and reports from troops who were first on the battlefield the day after Custer was annihilated, with special attention to the location of identifiable bodies. With careful extrapolation of the body locations and comparing the interviews of Indian participants, he determined that this revolver could only have been issued to Regimental Color Sgt. Robert M. Hughes of Company K. Accompanied by a 2-pg letter from renowned author, historian and collector, John Kopec, wherein he authenticates this revolver and verifies much of the technical information about the revolver. He speculates that it may have been simply a stolen revolver, but could have been captured by hostiles. Also accompanied by a copy of an interview of Runs-the-Enemy, a Two-Kettle Sioux who fought at the Little Big Horn, by Dr. Joseph K. Dixon was printed in his 1913 bookThe Vanishing Racefrom his 1909 publication. Additionally accompanying from about the same time is a copy of an interview by Ivan Stars who interviewed Chief Runs-the-Enemy and recorded it in the Sioux language then translated it into English. Both interviews relate nearly identical wording regarding the Custer Battle and the annihilation of his command. Mr. Star's rendition also includes the statement that "All thought horse soldier all die. Then one horse soldier raise up, all thought he returned to life from spirit land. Many frighten. He raise up arm to shoot six shooter pistol. I grab six shooter pistol from horse soldier. I shoot horse soldier in head with his six shooter pistol. He strong man. He have bad wound in belly before I kill him. His black whisker short hair. He have the white man called mustache long with curve at the end. He no horse soldier chief. He have marks on arm. He die close together with one called Yellow Hair... ". He continues near the end "I follow Kicking-Bear, mark on weapon with my possession. I wear ghost shirt. I dance the ghost dance. I give now to you my much thought. Coup, marked with sign, my possession, guard six-shooter pistol. To wash on red holy God, six-shooter pistol name 7-Zero-8-7. For I do this. I Run-the-Enemy." The "7-Zero-8-7" in Runs-the-Enemy's interview above certainly is the SN of this revolver. His statement "To wash on red holy God ---" appears to refer to an ocher wash applied to the grip which is now a very dark reddish brown similar to the two ocher dots found on Chief Two Moons' Colt revolver previously sold by the James D. Julia auction company. The nickeled ejector rod head may have originated on another Colt Single Action captured by Runs-the-Enemy at the Little Big Horn battle. Chief Runs-the-Enemy also captured a nickel plated Colt after he killed a "Black" soldier (apparently Isaiah Dorman, a black scout and interpreter killed in the battle). CONDITION: Very good, all matching including bbl, cylinder and grip. Cylinder number has been partially defaced with only part of the first "7", the "0" and last "7" visible. The "8" in the SN is completely gone.No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray metal patina showing muzzle edge wear and the muzzle filed flat during the period of use. Cylinder is in matching patina. Grip has chipped toes and left edge shows heavy wear with the aforementioned over all very dark reddish brown color. Mechanics are fine; strong, dark bore with fine pitting. 52454-1 JR431
IDENTIFIED TO SIOUX INDIAN RUNS-THE-ENEMY. SN 7087. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line script letter address that had "U.S.A."...more removed during the period of use. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and has also had "U.S." removed from the frame. Ejector housing is first type with nickel plated bull's eye ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends and slightly battered head. Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has partially obliterated matching SN in the backstrap channel. Only the "8" & "7" are completely legible. Left side of grip has the partial outline of an inspector's cartouche with partially legible "O" for Orville W. Ainsworth. There are small "A" inspector initials on the bbl, trigger guard, cyl & backstrap. Bottom edge of grip is battered & worn, obliterating the inspector initial there. Matching SN is also found on bottom of bbl under ejector housing & on the cylinder. This revolver appears to have been from 1,000 Colts of Lot 7, shipped in May 1874, 166 of which where issued to the 7th Cavalry. A previous owner spent an incredible amount of time studying notes, descriptions and reports from troops who were first on the battlefield the day after Custer was annihilated, with special attention to the location of identifiable bodies. With careful extrapolation of the body locations and comparing the interviews of Indian participants, he determined that this revolver could only have been issued to Regimental Color Sgt. Robert M. Hughes of Company K. Accompanied by a 2-pg letter from renowned author, historian and collector, John Kopec, wherein he authenticates this revolver and verifies much of the technical information about the revolver. He speculates that it may have been simply a stolen revolver, but could have been captured by hostiles. Also accompanied by a copy of an interview of Runs-the-Enemy, a Two-Kettle Sioux who fought at the Little Big Horn, by Dr. Joseph K. Dixon was printed in his 1913 bookThe Vanishing Racefrom his 1909 publication. Additionally accompanying from about the same time is a copy of an interview by Ivan Stars who interviewed Chief Runs-the-Enemy and recorded it in the Sioux language then translated it into English. Both interviews relate nearly identical wording regarding the Custer Battle and the annihilation of his command. Mr. Star's rendition also includes the statement that "All thought horse soldier all die. Then one horse soldier raise up, all thought he returned to life from spirit land. Many frighten. He raise up arm to shoot six shooter pistol. I grab six shooter pistol from horse soldier. I shoot horse soldier in head with his six shooter pistol. He strong man. He have bad wound in belly before I kill him. His black whisker short hair. He have the white man called mustache long with curve at the end. He no horse soldier chief. He have marks on arm. He die close together with one called Yellow Hair... ". He continues near the end "I follow Kicking-Bear, mark on weapon with my possession. I wear ghost shirt. I dance the ghost dance. I give now to you my much thought. Coup, marked with sign, my possession, guard six-shooter pistol. To wash on red holy God, six-shooter pistol name 7-Zero-8-7. For I do this. I Run-the-Enemy." The "7-Zero-8-7" in Runs-the-Enemy's interview above certainly is the SN of this revolver. His statement "To wash on red holy God ---" appears to refer to an ocher wash applied to the grip which is now a very dark reddish brown similar to the two ocher dots found on Chief Two Moons' Colt revolver previously sold by the James D. Julia auction company. The nickeled ejector rod head may have originated on another Colt Single Action captured by Runs-the-Enemy at the Little Big Horn battle. Chief Runs-the-Enemy also captured a nickel plated Colt after he killed a "Black" soldier (apparently Isaiah Dorman, a black scout and interpreter killed in the battle). CONDITION: Very good, all matching including bbl, cylinder and grip. Cylinder number has been partially defaced with only part of the first "7", the "0" and last "7" visible. The "8" in the SN is completely gone.No orig finish remains being an overall cleaned gray metal patina showing muzzle edge wear and the muzzle filed flat during the period of use. Cylinder is in matching patina. Grip has chipped toes and left edge shows heavy wear with the aforementioned over all very dark reddish brown color. Mechanics are fine; strong, dark bore with fine pitting. 52454-1 JR431

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SCARCE CUSTER RANGE COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER

Lot # 1161 (Sale Order: 162 of 755)      

INSPECTED BY AINSWORTH WITH HISTORY TO THE SIOUX INDIANS IN CANADA. SN 5860. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual config with 7-1/12" bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 1-line script letter address with serifs at each end. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and a small "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has matching SN in backstrap channel. Grip is hand carved on each side with deep geometric patterns that show wear consistent with their age. Ejector housing is 1st type with bullseye ejector rod head. Buttstrap retains its sharp toe and the ejector housing has had its sharp front edge rounded. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. All parts including bbl, cylinder, trigger guard, back strap and bottom left edge of grip are marked with a tiny "A", the inspector initial of Orville W. Ainsworth. Grip is too worn to show a cartouche. This revolver was part of Lot 6, received in February 1874 and in the second and third quarters of 1874 issued to the 1st, 2nd and 7th Cavalry Regiments, of which the 7th received 166 revolvers. At that time, Companies D and I, 7th Cavalry were issued those arms. It has provenance back to 1965 when it was discovered in a collection owned by a Mr. Albert Mattern, a farmer who owned land adjacent to the Hobbema Indian Reserve in Alberta, Canada, about 45 mi. south of Edmonton. This revolver was sold by the Bud Haynes Auction Company of Reindeer, Alberta, Canada. The history of this revolver is that Mr. Mattern had "owned it for 20 years and had originally acquired it from one of the native people on the reserve". This information was all contained in the auction description in 1965. The orig auction tag accompanies this revolver. The Hobbema Reserve is populated by the Anishinabe and Dakota native Indians and are related directly to the Sioux. This is the area to which Sitting Bull fled with his Sioux after the Battle of the Little Big Horn in June 1876. They remained in Canada until the early 1880's when they returned to the U.S. and surrendered, to be placed on various reservations. The probability of this revolver having been issued to one of Custer's troopers in Companies D or I is very strong given the fact that it was originally discovered in Canada near to where the Sioux retreated after the battle. Both the 2nd and 7th Regiments participated in fighting in June 1876. The 2nd Regiment was engaged at the Battle of the Rosebud with Gen. Crook, who was on his way to support Custer but delayed to rest horses and troops and the rest, as we know, is history. Company D was with Capt. Benteen who had three men killed in action with an unknown number of revolvers lost. Company I had all 38 men killed in action with Custer and all 38 revolvers recovered by the Indians. Seven troopers of Company I were with the pack train detail and none were lost in battle. Statistical information was obtained fromColt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers, a Continuing Study, Kopec & Fenn. The authors also state that there were a total of 266 men killed and 59 wounded in the battle, and it is estimated that approximately 300 Colt revolvers were lost by the troopers and recovered by the Indians. CONDITION: Good, all matching including bbl, cylinder and grip. The metal, overall retains an even dark brown patina, thinning around the rear edge of the frame from handling. Left front side of the frame has a series of dings as though it may have been dropped on rocks. Grip frame is matching patina. Cylinder is also matching patina with one small area of pitting. Grip has chipped toes and shows heavy wear with a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with sharp rifling and a few scattered small spots of pitting. 52454-3 JRL
INSPECTED BY AINSWORTH WITH HISTORY TO THE SIOUX INDIANS IN CANADA. SN 5860. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual config with 7-1/12" bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 1-line script l...moreetter address with serifs at each end. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and a small "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has matching SN in backstrap channel. Grip is hand carved on each side with deep geometric patterns that show wear consistent with their age. Ejector housing is 1st type with bullseye ejector rod head. Buttstrap retains its sharp toe and the ejector housing has had its sharp front edge rounded. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. All parts including bbl, cylinder, trigger guard, back strap and bottom left edge of grip are marked with a tiny "A", the inspector initial of Orville W. Ainsworth. Grip is too worn to show a cartouche. This revolver was part of Lot 6, received in February 1874 and in the second and third quarters of 1874 issued to the 1st, 2nd and 7th Cavalry Regiments, of which the 7th received 166 revolvers. At that time, Companies D and I, 7th Cavalry were issued those arms. It has provenance back to 1965 when it was discovered in a collection owned by a Mr. Albert Mattern, a farmer who owned land adjacent to the Hobbema Indian Reserve in Alberta, Canada, about 45 mi. south of Edmonton. This revolver was sold by the Bud Haynes Auction Company of Reindeer, Alberta, Canada. The history of this revolver is that Mr. Mattern had "owned it for 20 years and had originally acquired it from one of the native people on the reserve". This information was all contained in the auction description in 1965. The orig auction tag accompanies this revolver. The Hobbema Reserve is populated by the Anishinabe and Dakota native Indians and are related directly to the Sioux. This is the area to which Sitting Bull fled with his Sioux after the Battle of the Little Big Horn in June 1876. They remained in Canada until the early 1880's when they returned to the U.S. and surrendered, to be placed on various reservations. The probability of this revolver having been issued to one of Custer's troopers in Companies D or I is very strong given the fact that it was originally discovered in Canada near to where the Sioux retreated after the battle. Both the 2nd and 7th Regiments participated in fighting in June 1876. The 2nd Regiment was engaged at the Battle of the Rosebud with Gen. Crook, who was on his way to support Custer but delayed to rest horses and troops and the rest, as we know, is history. Company D was with Capt. Benteen who had three men killed in action with an unknown number of revolvers lost. Company I had all 38 men killed in action with Custer and all 38 revolvers recovered by the Indians. Seven troopers of Company I were with the pack train detail and none were lost in battle. Statistical information was obtained fromColt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers, a Continuing Study, Kopec & Fenn. The authors also state that there were a total of 266 men killed and 59 wounded in the battle, and it is estimated that approximately 300 Colt revolvers were lost by the troopers and recovered by the Indians. CONDITION: Good, all matching including bbl, cylinder and grip. The metal, overall retains an even dark brown patina, thinning around the rear edge of the frame from handling. Left front side of the frame has a series of dings as though it may have been dropped on rocks. Grip frame is matching patina. Cylinder is also matching patina with one small area of pitting. Grip has chipped toes and shows heavy wear with a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bright bore with sharp rifling and a few scattered small spots of pitting. 52454-3 JRL

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SCARCE CUSTER RANGE COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER

Lot # 1162 (Sale Order: 163 of 755)      

WITH KOPEC LETTER. SN 6045. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 1-line script letter address with the correct broken letters in the roll die. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has a tiny "A" (Orville W. Ainsworth) sub-inspector initial on bottom left edge. Bottom right edge of grip has crude carved initials "WW". Mr. Ainsworth's "A" is also found on bottom of bbl, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Matching SNs were found on the frame, trigger guard, backstrap, bbl and cylinder. Backstrap channel of the grip is dark and oil stained, obliterating any possibility of seeing the orig number. Ejector housing is 1st Type with bullseye ejector rod head and base pin is correct type with dimpled ends. Revolver has early features consisting of a sharp toe on the buttstrap, sharp front edge on the ejector housing and large cylinder stop notches without approaches. This revolver was part of Lot 6 from which the 1st, 2nd and 7th Cavalry regiments were issued the "new" revolvers from this lot in 1874 with the 7th Cavalry receiving about 166 revolvers from the SN range 5505-6516. The backstrap of a single action revolver, SN 6048, was located on the Custer Battlefield in relic condition during the archeological work in 1984. The 2nd Cavalry received 106 of these revolvers and the 1st 236 revolvers in that serial range. The history of the 7th Cavalry and Custer's debacle at the Little Bighorn against hostile Indians is extremely well known and needs no enhancement. The 2nd & 3rd Cavalry were equally storied and historic Cavalry regiments having fought Indians from Arizona to Montana and were actually present with General Crook at the Battle of the Rosebud on their way to support Custer at the Little Bighorn. The 1st Cavalry regiment was primarily stationed in California and their issue of these revolvers was shipped from Rock Island to Benicia Arsenal, California. The 1st Cavalry was also a historic regiment having fought Indians, outlaws and Mexicans throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Idaho and Utah. The 1st Cavalry also was engaged in the Nez Perce War in 1877. Given the close proximity of the SN of this revolver with that of the backstrap recovered at the Little Bighorn (#6048) and the revolver (#6046) documented as having been issued to Company H, 2nd Cavalry as of June 11, 1874 lends credence to the belief that this revolver was present at the Battle of the Little Bighorn or as a minimum at the Battle of the Rosebud with the 2nd or 3rd Cavalry regiments. The fact that this revolver has remained in orig configuration until today is indicative that it escaped the recalls of the 1890s and early 20th century and further promotes the idea that it may have been captured by hostiles in June 1876. Accompanied by a 2-pg letter from renown Colt historian, author and collection John Kopec wherein he verifies most of the above information. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip as noted, which is probably orig to this revolver. Overall retains a smooth brown patina with fine surface pitting. Bbl retains blue under the ejector housing. Grip is sound and shows and old amateur refinish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with some shine and a partial ring about mid-point along with moderate pitting. 52497-1
WITH KOPEC LETTER. SN 6045. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, slightly thinned front sight and 1-line script letter address with the correct broken lette...morers in the roll die. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has a tiny "A" (Orville W. Ainsworth) sub-inspector initial on bottom left edge. Bottom right edge of grip has crude carved initials "WW". Mr. Ainsworth's "A" is also found on bottom of bbl, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Matching SNs were found on the frame, trigger guard, backstrap, bbl and cylinder. Backstrap channel of the grip is dark and oil stained, obliterating any possibility of seeing the orig number. Ejector housing is 1st Type with bullseye ejector rod head and base pin is correct type with dimpled ends. Revolver has early features consisting of a sharp toe on the buttstrap, sharp front edge on the ejector housing and large cylinder stop notches without approaches. This revolver was part of Lot 6 from which the 1st, 2nd and 7th Cavalry regiments were issued the "new" revolvers from this lot in 1874 with the 7th Cavalry receiving about 166 revolvers from the SN range 5505-6516. The backstrap of a single action revolver, SN 6048, was located on the Custer Battlefield in relic condition during the archeological work in 1984. The 2nd Cavalry received 106 of these revolvers and the 1st 236 revolvers in that serial range. The history of the 7th Cavalry and Custer's debacle at the Little Bighorn against hostile Indians is extremely well known and needs no enhancement. The 2nd & 3rd Cavalry were equally storied and historic Cavalry regiments having fought Indians from Arizona to Montana and were actually present with General Crook at the Battle of the Rosebud on their way to support Custer at the Little Bighorn. The 1st Cavalry regiment was primarily stationed in California and their issue of these revolvers was shipped from Rock Island to Benicia Arsenal, California. The 1st Cavalry was also a historic regiment having fought Indians, outlaws and Mexicans throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Idaho and Utah. The 1st Cavalry also was engaged in the Nez Perce War in 1877. Given the close proximity of the SN of this revolver with that of the backstrap recovered at the Little Bighorn (#6048) and the revolver (#6046) documented as having been issued to Company H, 2nd Cavalry as of June 11, 1874 lends credence to the belief that this revolver was present at the Battle of the Little Bighorn or as a minimum at the Battle of the Rosebud with the 2nd or 3rd Cavalry regiments. The fact that this revolver has remained in orig configuration until today is indicative that it escaped the recalls of the 1890s and early 20th century and further promotes the idea that it may have been captured by hostiles in June 1876. Accompanied by a 2-pg letter from renown Colt historian, author and collection John Kopec wherein he verifies most of the above information. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip as noted, which is probably orig to this revolver. Overall retains a smooth brown patina with fine surface pitting. Bbl retains blue under the ejector housing. Grip is sound and shows and old amateur refinish. Mechanics are fine. Strong bore with some shine and a partial ring about mid-point along with moderate pitting. 52497-1

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RARE EARLY AINSWORTH INSPECTED COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1163 (Sale Order: 164 of 755)      

SN 3839. This is a nice complete Single Action Army, manufactured in 1874 in standard configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, early donut shaped ejector knob, 1-line Hartford address with daggers. Matching SN 3839 found on every part normally numbered, bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Grips have an indiscernible non-matching number that fit gun fairly well. Ainsworth "A" inspector marks are found on backstrap, under bbl, with proof firing "P", cylinder and trigger guard. This gun is in the serial range with noted documented guns issued to Company K 4th US Cavalry in 1874, known SN's issued to Company K 4th US Cavalry include SN's 3816, 3822, 3824. These three 4th Cavalry guns were part of a shipment of 1000 guns shipped to the San Antonio Arsenal, January 15, 1874 and other known guns in that shipment also include SN 3833, so no doubt this gun, if not issued to the 4th was issued to another of the western Cavalry units. This gun is an honest survivor of an early orig configuration Single Action Army that no doubt saw action in the Indian War. CONDITION: Good to very good overall, complete, orig and all matching with exception of grips which appear civilian with no discernible cartouche and only a single inked SN visible "2". Bbl retains strong traces of bright blue finish in protected areas, especially under ejector housing. Bbl address, 2-line patent and "US", SN's and inspector marks are well discerned. Gun is a mottled gray overall with old cleaning & pitting. Grips are refinished & varnished, but match gun well, with slight rounding at inside toe. Mechanics funtion with bright, crisp bore. 51935-3 JS
SN 3839. This is a nice complete Single Action Army, manufactured in 1874 in standard configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, early donut shaped ejector knob, 1-line Hartford addr...moreess with daggers. Matching SN 3839 found on every part normally numbered, bbl, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. Grips have an indiscernible non-matching number that fit gun fairly well. Ainsworth "A" inspector marks are found on backstrap, under bbl, with proof firing "P", cylinder and trigger guard. This gun is in the serial range with noted documented guns issued to Company K 4th US Cavalry in 1874, known SN's issued to Company K 4th US Cavalry include SN's 3816, 3822, 3824. These three 4th Cavalry guns were part of a shipment of 1000 guns shipped to the San Antonio Arsenal, January 15, 1874 and other known guns in that shipment also include SN 3833, so no doubt this gun, if not issued to the 4th was issued to another of the western Cavalry units. This gun is an honest survivor of an early orig configuration Single Action Army that no doubt saw action in the Indian War. CONDITION: Good to very good overall, complete, orig and all matching with exception of grips which appear civilian with no discernible cartouche and only a single inked SN visible "2". Bbl retains strong traces of bright blue finish in protected areas, especially under ejector housing. Bbl address, 2-line patent and "US", SN's and inspector marks are well discerned. Gun is a mottled gray overall with old cleaning & pitting. Grips are refinished & varnished, but match gun well, with slight rounding at inside toe. Mechanics funtion with bright, crisp bore. 51935-3 JS

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PRIME CUSTER RANGE LOT FIVE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1164 (Sale Order: 165 of 755)      

SN 4708. Cal. 45. This gun is accompanied by a John Kopec Letter of Authenticity written in 2004. He states "this revolver originated from within LOT FIVE. Lot Five was one of the prime lots from which the U.S. Seventh Cavalry received their initial issues of these revolvers in July of 1874. It was many of these revolvers which had seen service at the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn, or Custer's Last Stand. One revolver #4729 is cited in our book "Colt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers" as being a "Presumptive, Pine Ridge Sioux Reservation Indian use" example. Several examples from within this serial number range were returned to Colt's during 1895 to be refurbished. Among these we find; #4704, #4716, #4718, #4727, #4728, #4743, #4785 and #4791.". This gun has had a fair amount of restoration and could quite easily have been a Indian used gun as so many are found missing ejector housings and other parts. Matching SN's found on bbl, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. There is no SN on the grips or cylinder. The bbl has excellent correct 1-line Hartford address with daggers, but has been trimmed to just under 5-1/2". CONDITION: Fair to good overall. Metal is overall mottled gray, though markings well discerned except first line of patent markings on left side of frame which are very light. Small Ainsworth "A"'s are found on bbl, trigger guard and backstrap, though light on backstrap. Ejector assembly is replaced and of third type. Front sight is an older restoration as are grips which are heavily worn but appear to be original Colt. Cylinder is highly buffed and also appears to be a replacement. Firing pin, according to Kopec appears to be a homemade replacement, main spring, base pin and base pin screw are also replacements. Mechanically functional with discernible rifling in bore 51965-1 JS
SN 4708. Cal. 45. This gun is accompanied by a John Kopec Letter of Authenticity written in 2004. He states "this revolver originated from within LOT FIVE. Lot Five was o...morene of the prime lots from which the U.S. Seventh Cavalry received their initial issues of these revolvers in July of 1874. It was many of these revolvers which had seen service at the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn, or Custer's Last Stand. One revolver #4729 is cited in our book "Colt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers" as being a "Presumptive, Pine Ridge Sioux Reservation Indian use" example. Several examples from within this serial number range were returned to Colt's during 1895 to be refurbished. Among these we find; #4704, #4716, #4718, #4727, #4728, #4743, #4785 and #4791.". This gun has had a fair amount of restoration and could quite easily have been a Indian used gun as so many are found missing ejector housings and other parts. Matching SN's found on bbl, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. There is no SN on the grips or cylinder. The bbl has excellent correct 1-line Hartford address with daggers, but has been trimmed to just under 5-1/2". CONDITION: Fair to good overall. Metal is overall mottled gray, though markings well discerned except first line of patent markings on left side of frame which are very light. Small Ainsworth "A"'s are found on bbl, trigger guard and backstrap, though light on backstrap. Ejector assembly is replaced and of third type. Front sight is an older restoration as are grips which are heavily worn but appear to be original Colt. Cylinder is highly buffed and also appears to be a replacement. Firing pin, according to Kopec appears to be a homemade replacement, main spring, base pin and base pin screw are also replacements. Mechanically functional with discernible rifling in bore 51965-1 JS

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SCARCE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY ARTILLERY REVOLVER WITH SEVERAL

Lot # 1165 (Sale Order: 166 of 755)      

CUSTER RANGE PARTS ALL INSPECTED BY AINSWORTH. SN 5039. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 5-1/2" bbl, thinned front sight and 1-line script letter address with serifs at each end. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and a small "U.S". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that shows a clear "OCH" (Lt. Odis C. Horney) inspector cartouche under the date 1901 on the left side and the right side a clear "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr) sub-inspector cartouche. Mr. Carr's initials also appear on the bottom left edge of the grip. Ejector housing is 1st type with bullseye ejector rod head and orig type copper colored ejector spring. Base pin is without dimpled ends. The buttstrap has the orig sharp toe while the ejector housing sharp front edge has been rounded, probably during the period of use. All of the parts except the grip have tiny "A" (Orville W. Ainsworth) inspector initials. The following SN's were observed: 4798 on bbl; 3051 on trigger guard; 5742 on the buttstrap and 5296 on the cylinder. All of these parts are Custer range except the trigger guard, which was probably issued to the 4th Cavalry in January 1874. Revolvers in the SN range 4500-5504 were issued to the 7th Cavalry in March 1874 and those in the range of 5505-6516 were issued to the 7th Cavalry in April 1874. In the bookCavalry & Artillery Revolvers a Continuing Study, Kopeck & Fenn, the authors state that SN 5740 was documented to the 7th Cavalry in 1888. Most of these parts can be presumed to have been issued on Cavalry revolvers to the 7th, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Cavalry regiments and probably were present at the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Especially the backstrap, no. 5742. The authors also cite numerous examples of Indian used and Pine Ridge Sioux Reservation used revolvers that are in the same range. Obviously, this is one of the revolves recalled to the arsenal where they were altered to Cavalry configuration with no thought to continuity of SN's. These revolvers remained in service well into the 20th century before being sold as surplus. CONDITION: Fair to good. No orig finish remains, being overall smooth blue-grey patina with fine frosty pitting on the frame. Cylinder is a cleaned grey metal patina. Trigger guard and backstrap are also cleaned grey metal patina with fine pitting on backstrap. Grip has chipped toes with a few dings and bruises, and retains a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong dark bore. 52454-2 JRL
CUSTER RANGE PARTS ALL INSPECTED BY AINSWORTH. SN 5039. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 5-1/2" bbl, thinned front sight and 1-line script letter address with serif...mores at each end. Left side of frame has 2-line patent dates and a small "U.S". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that shows a clear "OCH" (Lt. Odis C. Horney) inspector cartouche under the date 1901 on the left side and the right side a clear "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr) sub-inspector cartouche. Mr. Carr's initials also appear on the bottom left edge of the grip. Ejector housing is 1st type with bullseye ejector rod head and orig type copper colored ejector spring. Base pin is without dimpled ends. The buttstrap has the orig sharp toe while the ejector housing sharp front edge has been rounded, probably during the period of use. All of the parts except the grip have tiny "A" (Orville W. Ainsworth) inspector initials. The following SN's were observed: 4798 on bbl; 3051 on trigger guard; 5742 on the buttstrap and 5296 on the cylinder. All of these parts are Custer range except the trigger guard, which was probably issued to the 4th Cavalry in January 1874. Revolvers in the SN range 4500-5504 were issued to the 7th Cavalry in March 1874 and those in the range of 5505-6516 were issued to the 7th Cavalry in April 1874. In the bookCavalry & Artillery Revolvers a Continuing Study, Kopeck & Fenn, the authors state that SN 5740 was documented to the 7th Cavalry in 1888. Most of these parts can be presumed to have been issued on Cavalry revolvers to the 7th, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Cavalry regiments and probably were present at the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Especially the backstrap, no. 5742. The authors also cite numerous examples of Indian used and Pine Ridge Sioux Reservation used revolvers that are in the same range. Obviously, this is one of the revolves recalled to the arsenal where they were altered to Cavalry configuration with no thought to continuity of SN's. These revolvers remained in service well into the 20th century before being sold as surplus. CONDITION: Fair to good. No orig finish remains, being overall smooth blue-grey patina with fine frosty pitting on the frame. Cylinder is a cleaned grey metal patina. Trigger guard and backstrap are also cleaned grey metal patina with fine pitting on backstrap. Grip has chipped toes with a few dings and bruises, and retains a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong dark bore. 52454-2 JRL

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EXCEPTIONAL CLARK INSPECTED COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1166 (Sale Order: 167 of 755)      

SN 55629. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color cased hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates and "U.S.". Mounted with matching numbered, oil finish 1-pc walnut grip that has oval "DAL" (Lt. David A. Lyle) inspector cartouche under the date "1880" on the left side and a rectangular "DFC" (David F. Clark) sub-inspector cartouche on the right. Mr. Clark's initials also appear on the bottom right edge of the grip, on the cylinder, bottom of the bbl and bottom of the frame adjacent to the SN. Frame, trigger guard and buttstrap have full matching SNs and the bbl, cylinder and grip, in the backstrap channel, are marked with the last 4 digits of matching SN. Ejector housing is 2nd Type with bullseye ejector rod head and orig bronze colored spring. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. This revolver was among the early part of the 4th Contract produced in 1880. Several revolvers from this early 4th Contract are known to have been issued to both the 6th and 7th Cavalry as well as the Philippines Cebu police. The fact that this revolver remains in orig configuration with high orig conditioning attests to it having escaped the recalls of the 1890's and early 20th century where thousands of cavalry revolvers were returned to both Colt and Springfield Arsenal for conversion to artillery configuration. This is one of the finest Lyle/Clark inspected Cavalry revolvers extant. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching as noted above. Bbl retains 95-96% strong, glossy orig blue with distinct "feathers" on each side of the front sight and each side of the ejector housing stud. Frame retains about 98-99% crisp, bright, orig case colors with only faint sharp edge wear and some slight fading on the recoil shield and loading gate. Screws retain virtually all of their orig fire blue. Hammer retains about all of its orig case colors, moderately faded. Trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig factory blue with sharp edge wear and some dulling of the backstrap. Cylinder retains about 95% strong orig blue, lightly thinned on the outer diameter, strong and bright in the flutes. Chambers retain virtually all of their orig factory blue. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks and dings on the right side showing light edge wear and overall retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny showing most of its orig blue bore with no evidence of ever having been fired. 51857-1 JRL
SN 55629. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color cased hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of the frame has 3-line patent dates an...mored "U.S.". Mounted with matching numbered, oil finish 1-pc walnut grip that has oval "DAL" (Lt. David A. Lyle) inspector cartouche under the date "1880" on the left side and a rectangular "DFC" (David F. Clark) sub-inspector cartouche on the right. Mr. Clark's initials also appear on the bottom right edge of the grip, on the cylinder, bottom of the bbl and bottom of the frame adjacent to the SN. Frame, trigger guard and buttstrap have full matching SNs and the bbl, cylinder and grip, in the backstrap channel, are marked with the last 4 digits of matching SN. Ejector housing is 2nd Type with bullseye ejector rod head and orig bronze colored spring. Base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. This revolver was among the early part of the 4th Contract produced in 1880. Several revolvers from this early 4th Contract are known to have been issued to both the 6th and 7th Cavalry as well as the Philippines Cebu police. The fact that this revolver remains in orig configuration with high orig conditioning attests to it having escaped the recalls of the 1890's and early 20th century where thousands of cavalry revolvers were returned to both Colt and Springfield Arsenal for conversion to artillery configuration. This is one of the finest Lyle/Clark inspected Cavalry revolvers extant. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, all matching as noted above. Bbl retains 95-96% strong, glossy orig blue with distinct "feathers" on each side of the front sight and each side of the ejector housing stud. Frame retains about 98-99% crisp, bright, orig case colors with only faint sharp edge wear and some slight fading on the recoil shield and loading gate. Screws retain virtually all of their orig fire blue. Hammer retains about all of its orig case colors, moderately faded. Trigger guard and backstrap retain most of their orig factory blue with sharp edge wear and some dulling of the backstrap. Cylinder retains about 95% strong orig blue, lightly thinned on the outer diameter, strong and bright in the flutes. Chambers retain virtually all of their orig factory blue. Grip is sound with a few minor nicks and dings on the right side showing light edge wear and overall retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny showing most of its orig blue bore with no evidence of ever having been fired. 51857-1 JRL

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SCARCE CASEY INSPECTED COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1167 (Sale Order: 168 of 755)      

SN 16632. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line script letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and a small "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Left side of grip has a legible "APC" (A.P. Casey) sub-inspector cartouche. Bottom of grip, bottom of bbl, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder all have small "C" inspector initials. Bottom of bbl under ejector housing has last 4-digit of matching SN which are also found on cylinder. Ejector housing is 1st type with bullseye ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. This revolver is still in its orig cavalry configuration having escaped the recalls of 1893 and early 20th century when thousands of cavalry revolvers were recalled by the armory, refurbished and had their bbls shortened to 5-1/2" artillery configuration. This revolver was manufactured in 1875 during the height of the Indian wars when cavalry revolvers were in great demand. Most of the production of that period would have been issued to front line cavalry units. Others however were issued to state militias where they remained until they were declared surplus, returned to the arsenal and sold as surplus. That this revolver remains in near unfired condition attests to the fact that it was either stolen from the army, captured by the Indians or remained in a militia armory until sold. Accompanied by a John Kopec 2-pg letter wherein he validates most of the above information and states that this revolver "remains 100% authentic in every respect". Also accompanied by a letter from Rob Judd of Rural Retreat, VA dated June 25, 2008 wherein he states that he received this revolver after his grandfather's death in about 1956. His grandfather was Burt L. Knight of Manchester, CT and that he has no information beyond that. PROVENANCE: Ex-Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains traces of orig finish in the most sheltered areas, being a clean, smooth gray/brown patina. Front gullets of frame retain strong case colors and the hammer faded case colors. Cylinder retains blue in the flutes with the outer diameter matching patina to the revolver. Grip is crisp, showing light edge wear and a legible cartouche, lightly battered on the bottom edges. Hammer will not catch in the safety notch and is not solid in the half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore, shows very little evidence of having been fired. 52072-1 JR101
SN 16632. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color case hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line script letter address. Left side of frame has 2-line 3 patent dates and ...morea small "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Left side of grip has a legible "APC" (A.P. Casey) sub-inspector cartouche. Bottom of grip, bottom of bbl, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder all have small "C" inspector initials. Bottom of bbl under ejector housing has last 4-digit of matching SN which are also found on cylinder. Ejector housing is 1st type with bullseye ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. This revolver is still in its orig cavalry configuration having escaped the recalls of 1893 and early 20th century when thousands of cavalry revolvers were recalled by the armory, refurbished and had their bbls shortened to 5-1/2" artillery configuration. This revolver was manufactured in 1875 during the height of the Indian wars when cavalry revolvers were in great demand. Most of the production of that period would have been issued to front line cavalry units. Others however were issued to state militias where they remained until they were declared surplus, returned to the arsenal and sold as surplus. That this revolver remains in near unfired condition attests to the fact that it was either stolen from the army, captured by the Indians or remained in a militia armory until sold. Accompanied by a John Kopec 2-pg letter wherein he validates most of the above information and states that this revolver "remains 100% authentic in every respect". Also accompanied by a letter from Rob Judd of Rural Retreat, VA dated June 25, 2008 wherein he states that he received this revolver after his grandfather's death in about 1956. His grandfather was Burt L. Knight of Manchester, CT and that he has no information beyond that. PROVENANCE: Ex-Tommy Rholes Estate Collection. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. Overall retains traces of orig finish in the most sheltered areas, being a clean, smooth gray/brown patina. Front gullets of frame retain strong case colors and the hammer faded case colors. Cylinder retains blue in the flutes with the outer diameter matching patina to the revolver. Grip is crisp, showing light edge wear and a legible cartouche, lightly battered on the bottom edges. Hammer will not catch in the safety notch and is not solid in the half-cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Brilliant shiny bore, shows very little evidence of having been fired. 52072-1 JR101

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FINE COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER FROM THE

Lot # 1168 (Sale Order: 169 of 755)      

LAST CONTRACT WITH FACTORY LETTER. SN 131615. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left front side of frame has 3-line patent dates and "U.S". Mounted with oil finished 1-pc walnut grip that has the large "SEB" (Capt. Stanhope E. Blunt) inspector cartouche under the date 1890. Right side has the large "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr) sub-inpector cartouche. Mr. Carr's initials also appear one the bottom edge of grip, bottom of bbl, bottom of frame and cyl. The "mystery" "K" inspector initial appears on the trigger guard and butt strap. Ejector housing is third type with half-moon ejector rod head and base pin is proper type without dimples. Accompanied by a Colt Factor letter addressed to Mr. R.H. Vanyek, dated Aug. 22, 1962 which identifies this revolver in cal 45, blue finish with 7-1/2" bbl, type of stock not listed and delivered to the U.S. gov't inspector at the Colt plant on Apr. 30, 1890 in a 270 gun shipment. SN was observed in the usual places on the frame, trigger guard and butt strap with last four digits of matching no. on bottom of bbl and cyl. Back strap channel of the grip has the last four digits "1574", obviously that of another revolver from the same shipment. Grips were probably mixed during a cleaning session in an armory or in the field. The fact that this revolver remains in original configuration attests to the premise that it escaped the recalls of the 1890's and early 20th century where thousands of Calvary revolvers were converted to Artillery configuration. Very likely this revolver was assigned to a Calvary militia unit or was possibly stolen by a deserting soldier. Also accompanied by a box of twelve Frankford Arsenal Revolver Ball Cartridges dated 1878. This revolver was part of the 12th and 13th contracts for 2000 such items manufactured 1890-1891. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip, as noted above. Bbl retains about 93-95% strong original blue with light muzzle end holster wear and a couple of small dings. Front sight shows strong "feathers" on each side and on each side of the ejector rod stud. Frame retains about all of its orig case colors, strong and bright in the most sheltered areas, light to moderate fading elsewhere. Hammer retains brilliant case colors on sides and rear edge, faded on top edge. Hammer screw fire blue has faded with the other screws retaining most of their bright, shiny fire blue. Trigger guard and front strap retain about 95% bright original blue with the backstrap showing strong blue at the top and on the butt strap having worn to blue/grey patina elsewhere. Cyl retains about 85% original blue with sharp edge wear and thinning on the outer diameter, strong and bright in the flutes. Chambers of the cyl and bore retain most of their strong original blue indicating that the revolver has been fired very little. Grip is sound showing moderate edge wear with a couple of small chips and dings and retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Cartridge box has repaired broken edges, pull string is intact. 52527-15
LAST CONTRACT WITH FACTORY LETTER. SN 131615. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left front side ...moreof frame has 3-line patent dates and "U.S". Mounted with oil finished 1-pc walnut grip that has the large "SEB" (Capt. Stanhope E. Blunt) inspector cartouche under the date 1890. Right side has the large "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr) sub-inpector cartouche. Mr. Carr's initials also appear one the bottom edge of grip, bottom of bbl, bottom of frame and cyl. The "mystery" "K" inspector initial appears on the trigger guard and butt strap. Ejector housing is third type with half-moon ejector rod head and base pin is proper type without dimples. Accompanied by a Colt Factor letter addressed to Mr. R.H. Vanyek, dated Aug. 22, 1962 which identifies this revolver in cal 45, blue finish with 7-1/2" bbl, type of stock not listed and delivered to the U.S. gov't inspector at the Colt plant on Apr. 30, 1890 in a 270 gun shipment. SN was observed in the usual places on the frame, trigger guard and butt strap with last four digits of matching no. on bottom of bbl and cyl. Back strap channel of the grip has the last four digits "1574", obviously that of another revolver from the same shipment. Grips were probably mixed during a cleaning session in an armory or in the field. The fact that this revolver remains in original configuration attests to the premise that it escaped the recalls of the 1890's and early 20th century where thousands of Calvary revolvers were converted to Artillery configuration. Very likely this revolver was assigned to a Calvary militia unit or was possibly stolen by a deserting soldier. Also accompanied by a box of twelve Frankford Arsenal Revolver Ball Cartridges dated 1878. This revolver was part of the 12th and 13th contracts for 2000 such items manufactured 1890-1891. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching except grip, as noted above. Bbl retains about 93-95% strong original blue with light muzzle end holster wear and a couple of small dings. Front sight shows strong "feathers" on each side and on each side of the ejector rod stud. Frame retains about all of its orig case colors, strong and bright in the most sheltered areas, light to moderate fading elsewhere. Hammer retains brilliant case colors on sides and rear edge, faded on top edge. Hammer screw fire blue has faded with the other screws retaining most of their bright, shiny fire blue. Trigger guard and front strap retain about 95% bright original blue with the backstrap showing strong blue at the top and on the butt strap having worn to blue/grey patina elsewhere. Cyl retains about 85% original blue with sharp edge wear and thinning on the outer diameter, strong and bright in the flutes. Chambers of the cyl and bore retain most of their strong original blue indicating that the revolver has been fired very little. Grip is sound showing moderate edge wear with a couple of small chips and dings and retains most of its orig oil finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Cartridge box has repaired broken edges, pull string is intact. 52527-15

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FINE COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER INSPECTED BY

Lot # 1169 (Sale Order: 170 of 755)      

CAPT. STANHOPE E. BLUNT. SN 134183. Cal. 45 COLT. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and "US". Ejector housing is 3rd type with half moon ejector rod head. Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Left side of grip has the faintly legible cartouche "SEB" (Capt. Stanhope E. Blunt) under the date that appears to be 1890. Right side has the faint outline of what would be the "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr), sub-inspector initials in cartouche. Mr. Carr's initials also appear on left bottom edge of grip, bottom of bbl, bottom of frame & cylinder. The trigger guard, backstrap & ejector housing are marked with the mystery "K" inspector initial. This revolver was produced in 1890 as part of the 12th and 13th contracts signed in Nov. 1889 & Sept. 1890 for 2,000 revolvers each. Many of these revolvers were assigned to militia units where they remained until recalled and were then sold as surplus. That this revolver escaped the recalls of the 1890s and early 20th century where thousands of cavalry revolvers were converted to artillery configuration by having their bbls cut to 5-1/2", attests to the fact that it was with an active cavalry unit, assigned to a militia or possibly had been stolen, which was not an uncommon occurrence. Regardless, few cavalry revolvers of that era remain today in orig configuration and with orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including bbl, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains 93-95% glossy orig blue with light muzzle end wear and some thinning to the left side. Each side of the front sight and each side of the ejector stud show strong "feathers". Ejector housing retains about 90-92% strong orig blue, thinning to silver on about an inch of the outer radius at the muzzle end. Frame & hammer retain about 95-96% orig case colors, strong in the front gullets and in sheltered areas, brighter on the right side. Hammer shows strong bright case colors, turned dark on top edge. Cylinder retains about 75-80% thin orig blue on the outer diameter, strong & bright in the flutes. Chambers of the cylinder & bore retain most of their orig blue indicating that it has been fired very little. Trigger guard & trigger plate retain about 80% strong, bright blue thinning on the front strap. Backstrap & buttstrap retain about 70-75% strong orig blue, thin in the middle with a spot of cleaned pitting on the buttstrap. Grip is sound showing heavy edge wear on the right side and overall retains a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore. 52699-1 JRL
CAPT. STANHOPE E. BLUNT. SN 134183. Cal. 45 COLT. Blue & color case hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight & 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-lin...moree patent dates and "US". Ejector housing is 3rd type with half moon ejector rod head. Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that has last 4-digits of matching SN in backstrap channel. Left side of grip has the faintly legible cartouche "SEB" (Capt. Stanhope E. Blunt) under the date that appears to be 1890. Right side has the faint outline of what would be the "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr), sub-inspector initials in cartouche. Mr. Carr's initials also appear on left bottom edge of grip, bottom of bbl, bottom of frame & cylinder. The trigger guard, backstrap & ejector housing are marked with the mystery "K" inspector initial. This revolver was produced in 1890 as part of the 12th and 13th contracts signed in Nov. 1889 & Sept. 1890 for 2,000 revolvers each. Many of these revolvers were assigned to militia units where they remained until recalled and were then sold as surplus. That this revolver escaped the recalls of the 1890s and early 20th century where thousands of cavalry revolvers were converted to artillery configuration by having their bbls cut to 5-1/2", attests to the fact that it was with an active cavalry unit, assigned to a militia or possibly had been stolen, which was not an uncommon occurrence. Regardless, few cavalry revolvers of that era remain today in orig configuration and with orig finish. CONDITION: Very fine, all matching including bbl, cylinder & grip. Bbl retains 93-95% glossy orig blue with light muzzle end wear and some thinning to the left side. Each side of the front sight and each side of the ejector stud show strong "feathers". Ejector housing retains about 90-92% strong orig blue, thinning to silver on about an inch of the outer radius at the muzzle end. Frame & hammer retain about 95-96% orig case colors, strong in the front gullets and in sheltered areas, brighter on the right side. Hammer shows strong bright case colors, turned dark on top edge. Cylinder retains about 75-80% thin orig blue on the outer diameter, strong & bright in the flutes. Chambers of the cylinder & bore retain most of their orig blue indicating that it has been fired very little. Trigger guard & trigger plate retain about 80% strong, bright blue thinning on the front strap. Backstrap & buttstrap retain about 70-75% strong orig blue, thin in the middle with a spot of cleaned pitting on the buttstrap. Grip is sound showing heavy edge wear on the right side and overall retains a hand worn patina. Hammer is not solid in half cock notch, otherwise mechanics are fine, very bright shiny bore. 52699-1 JRL

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SCARCE CASEY INSPECTED COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1170 (Sale Order: 171 of 755)      

SN 16650. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color cased hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has partial 2-line patent dates and a partial "U.S.". Ejector housing is 1st Type with bullseye ejector rod head. Base pin is a replacement without dimpled ends. Grip is a varnished civilian replacement with spurious matching pencil number in the backstrap channel. Left side of grip is crudely carved "WA" and right bottom edge of grip is carved with an "M" or "W". The bbl and cylinder show last 4 digits of matching SN. Bbl, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder have small "C" (A. P. Casey) sub-inspector initials. Casey inspected Cavalry revolvers are some of the more scarce to find. CONDITION: Fair to good, matching numbers as noted above. Overall retains a high quality restored finish with the bbl showing 30-40% blue with scattered fine pitting. Frame retains about 60% faded case colors and the hammer dark case colors. Cylinder is mostly a blue/brown patina on the outer diameter with blue in the flutes. Trigger guard and backstrap retain 50-60% thin blue. Grip has a chipped left toe and shows moderate to heavy edge wear with about 20% orig varnish. All the screws are replacements, probably at the time of refinish. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 52511-11
SN 16650. Cal. 45 Colt. Blue and color cased hardened with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has partial 2-line patent date...mores and a partial "U.S.". Ejector housing is 1st Type with bullseye ejector rod head. Base pin is a replacement without dimpled ends. Grip is a varnished civilian replacement with spurious matching pencil number in the backstrap channel. Left side of grip is crudely carved "WA" and right bottom edge of grip is carved with an "M" or "W". The bbl and cylinder show last 4 digits of matching SN. Bbl, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder have small "C" (A. P. Casey) sub-inspector initials. Casey inspected Cavalry revolvers are some of the more scarce to find. CONDITION: Fair to good, matching numbers as noted above. Overall retains a high quality restored finish with the bbl showing 30-40% blue with scattered fine pitting. Frame retains about 60% faded case colors and the hammer dark case colors. Cylinder is mostly a blue/brown patina on the outer diameter with blue in the flutes. Trigger guard and backstrap retain 50-60% thin blue. Grip has a chipped left toe and shows moderate to heavy edge wear with about 20% orig varnish. All the screws are replacements, probably at the time of refinish. Hammer is not solid in safety notch, otherwise mechanics are fine. Strong bore with moderate to heavy pitting. 52511-11

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COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER.

Lot # 1171 (Sale Order: 172 of 755)      

SN 35387. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip whose cartouches have been obliterated during refinish. Matching SNs were observed on the frame, trigger guard and buttstrap with last 4 digits of matching SN on the bbl and cylinder. The sub-inspector initials "JTC" (John T. Cleveland) appear on the frame, bottom of the bbl, cylinder and bottom left edge of grip. Ejector housing is 3rd Type with bullseye ejector rod head. Base pin is correct style with dimpled ends. Revolver has been completely refinished. This revolver was part of the 9th Extension of the Contract which encompassed 2,003 revolvers delivered in about 1877. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip as noted. Overall retains most of a custom, smooth, blue/brown finish with faint sharp edge wear. Grip is sound with a smooth custom oil finish. Mechanics are fine. Strong sharp bore with fine frosty pitting. 52493-1 JRL
SN 35387. Cal. 45 Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, full front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and "U.S.". Moun...moreted with 1-pc walnut grip whose cartouches have been obliterated during refinish. Matching SNs were observed on the frame, trigger guard and buttstrap with last 4 digits of matching SN on the bbl and cylinder. The sub-inspector initials "JTC" (John T. Cleveland) appear on the frame, bottom of the bbl, cylinder and bottom left edge of grip. Ejector housing is 3rd Type with bullseye ejector rod head. Base pin is correct style with dimpled ends. Revolver has been completely refinished. This revolver was part of the 9th Extension of the Contract which encompassed 2,003 revolvers delivered in about 1877. CONDITION: Fair to good, all matching except grip as noted. Overall retains most of a custom, smooth, blue/brown finish with faint sharp edge wear. Grip is sound with a smooth custom oil finish. Mechanics are fine. Strong sharp bore with fine frosty pitting. 52493-1 JRL

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COLT CAVALRY SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER PRODUCED IN 1880

Lot # 1172 (Sale Order: 173 of 755)      

WITH KOPEC LETTER. SN 54637. Cal 45. Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-line patent dates and "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that is probably orig to this revolver, although any number that was in the backstrap channel has been obliterated with oil stains. Left side of the grip shows the oval cartouche "DAL" (Lt. David A. Lyle) inspector cartouche under the date "1880". Right side has the barely legible "DFC" (David F. Clark) sub inspector cartouche. Grip has 4 notches on the bottom left edge and 2 on the bottom right edge. Whether these notches represent men that the owner killed, gophers or skunks is unknown. Right center of the grip has the initials "JUD" or "TUD". The J is reversed which would make it a lower case t. Ejector housing is second type with bullseye ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Accompanied by a 2-page letter from renowned Colt Single Action collector, researcher and author, John A. Kopec wherein he details much of the above information. Mr. Kopec also correctly pointed out that the "DFC" sub inspector mark on the bbl is different from known specimens of that mark and that the individual digits of the SN on the bottom of the bbl differ from the other identical digits on the rest of the revolver. Whether this bbl was changed at a later date is unclear at this time. This revolver was part of a large order of Colt's from the fourth contract, delivered in 1880 and would have likely seen service with one of the Cavalry Regiments fighting Indians on the American frontier. The fact that it remains in orig configuration attests to the premise that it escaped the recall and conversion to artillery configuration in the 1890s and early 20th century. Whether it had been stolen, captured by hostiles or assigned to a militia unit is unknown as of this writing. CONDITION: About good, all matching except grip as noted. Orig finish remains only under the ejector housing and in the most sheltered areas. Screws are mostly in fine condition. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cylinder is a matching gray patina with an area of battering around one flute. Trigger guard & backstrap are a plummy brown patina. Grip is sound with a few light nicks and retains most of a fine hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 52506-13 JRL
WITH KOPEC LETTER. SN 54637. Cal 45. Colt. Usual configuration with 7-1/2" bbl, slightly altered front sight and 1-line block letter address. Left side of frame has 3-lin...moree patent dates and "U.S.". Mounted with 1-pc walnut grip that is probably orig to this revolver, although any number that was in the backstrap channel has been obliterated with oil stains. Left side of the grip shows the oval cartouche "DAL" (Lt. David A. Lyle) inspector cartouche under the date "1880". Right side has the barely legible "DFC" (David F. Clark) sub inspector cartouche. Grip has 4 notches on the bottom left edge and 2 on the bottom right edge. Whether these notches represent men that the owner killed, gophers or skunks is unknown. Right center of the grip has the initials "JUD" or "TUD". The J is reversed which would make it a lower case t. Ejector housing is second type with bullseye ejector rod head and base pin is orig type with dimpled ends. Accompanied by a 2-page letter from renowned Colt Single Action collector, researcher and author, John A. Kopec wherein he details much of the above information. Mr. Kopec also correctly pointed out that the "DFC" sub inspector mark on the bbl is different from known specimens of that mark and that the individual digits of the SN on the bottom of the bbl differ from the other identical digits on the rest of the revolver. Whether this bbl was changed at a later date is unclear at this time. This revolver was part of a large order of Colt's from the fourth contract, delivered in 1880 and would have likely seen service with one of the Cavalry Regiments fighting Indians on the American frontier. The fact that it remains in orig configuration attests to the premise that it escaped the recall and conversion to artillery configuration in the 1890s and early 20th century. Whether it had been stolen, captured by hostiles or assigned to a militia unit is unknown as of this writing. CONDITION: About good, all matching except grip as noted. Orig finish remains only under the ejector housing and in the most sheltered areas. Screws are mostly in fine condition. Hammer retains dark case colors. Cylinder is a matching gray patina with an area of battering around one flute. Trigger guard & backstrap are a plummy brown patina. Grip is sound with a few light nicks and retains most of a fine hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered fine pitting. 52506-13 JRL

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EXTREMELY FINE COLT ARTILLERY SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER WITH FACTORY

Lot # 1173 (Sale Order: 174 of 755)      

LETTER. SN 96458. Cal. 45. Standard configuration blue and case hardened, 1-line Hartford address, full front sight, 3-line patent & "US" on left side of frame. Mounted with a 1-pc walnut grip that has the date "1903" over "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr). Gun is in truly remarkable condition retaining virtually all of its orig finish. Frame is SN 96458, backstrap is 138270 and trigger guard is 6957 with small inspector "A" for Ainsworth. Trigger guard was part of a gun from LOT SEVEN which a portion of it would have gone to the 7th US Cavalry and at least 3 revolvers have Custer Battlefield association, #6559, #7047 and #7119 (see Kopec & Fenn,Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers, page 259-262). However most guns in this series are associated with the 2nd and 5th US Cavalries. Regardless this is a remarkable gun that would be difficult to upgrade. PROVENANCE: Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming shipment on August 24, 1883. CONDITION: Extremely fine overall, gun appears orig and complete, retaining 97-98% bright blue on bbl, ejector housing, backstrap, trigger guard and cylinder. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their bright and muted case colors. There is a light drag line on cylinder and several cosmetic scratched scattered on bbl, slight reductions of blue at muzzle and face of ejector housing. Grips are sound, well fit with hand worn patina and crisp cartouche. Mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore. 51988-1 JS
LETTER. SN 96458. Cal. 45. Standard configuration blue and case hardened, 1-line Hartford address, full front sight, 3-line patent & "US" on left side of frame. Mounted w...moreith a 1-pc walnut grip that has the date "1903" over "RAC" (Rinaldo A. Carr). Gun is in truly remarkable condition retaining virtually all of its orig finish. Frame is SN 96458, backstrap is 138270 and trigger guard is 6957 with small inspector "A" for Ainsworth. Trigger guard was part of a gun from LOT SEVEN which a portion of it would have gone to the 7th US Cavalry and at least 3 revolvers have Custer Battlefield association, #6559, #7047 and #7119 (see Kopec & Fenn,Cavalry & Artillery Revolvers, page 259-262). However most guns in this series are associated with the 2nd and 5th US Cavalries. Regardless this is a remarkable gun that would be difficult to upgrade. PROVENANCE: Accompanied by a Colt Factory Letter confirming shipment on August 24, 1883. CONDITION: Extremely fine overall, gun appears orig and complete, retaining 97-98% bright blue on bbl, ejector housing, backstrap, trigger guard and cylinder. Frame & hammer retain virtually all of their bright and muted case colors. There is a light drag line on cylinder and several cosmetic scratched scattered on bbl, slight reductions of blue at muzzle and face of ejector housing. Grips are sound, well fit with hand worn patina and crisp cartouche. Mechanics are crisp with bright shiny bore. 51988-1 JS

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EXTRAORDINARY COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY CAVALRY REVOLVER U.S. ISSUE

Lot # 1174 (Sale Order: 175 of 755)      

WITH FACTORY LETTER. SN 131728. Cal. 45 LC. 7-1/2" bbl. Blue and case color finish. 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl shows correct 1-line address on top with "RAC/P" stamped on bottom in front of cyl pin. There is a "K" inspector mark at ejector rod stud. Frame shows a 3-line patent mark on forward left side with US to the rear. SNs match on frame, trigger guard, backstrap, bbl, and cyl. Last 4-digits of SN are written in ink in backstrap channel of grip. Frame has "RAC" stamp above SN. Cyl shows "RAC" and "P" on periphery. Trigger guard has "K" proof in front of bow. Backstrap has "K" proof behind SN. Grip has "SEB" cartouche on left side with "1890" over cartouche. Right side of grip shows "RAC" cartouche. PROVENANCE: Colt Factory letter confirming delivery to the U.S. Government inspector on April 30,1890. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 90% bright-blue finish with visible feather marks around front-sight and ejector rod stud. Blue has flaked slightly on right side of bbl address toward the breech where it has turned a plumb-brown patina. All bbl marks are sharp. Front-sight is full-sized, ejector rod housing shows 90% blue with front edge wear. Frame retains 90% of the slightly faded case color that is vivid under loading gate and in gullets in front of cyl. Frame markings are sharp. Frame screws show considerable blue. Hammer retains 90% case color on both sides front and rear. Trigger shows considerable blue. Trigger guard shows 95% blue. Slightly faded on forestrap. Backstrap shows 90% blue with some light scratches down back side and on butt. Cyl shows 80% blue finish that has flaked somewhat, has high edge wear, and a slight drag-mark. Cyl flutes show strong blueberry color. Cyl markings are sharp. Grip is fine with nearly all the oil finish, sharp cartouches, and a few small handling marks. There are 2 small dents on the right side of butt. A wonderfully preserved example of a Colt Single Action Cavalry revolver shipped in 1890. 52154-7
WITH FACTORY LETTER. SN 131728. Cal. 45 LC. 7-1/2" bbl. Blue and case color finish. 1-pc walnut grip. Bbl shows correct 1-line address on top with "RAC/P" stamped on bott...moreom in front of cyl pin. There is a "K" inspector mark at ejector rod stud. Frame shows a 3-line patent mark on forward left side with US to the rear. SNs match on frame, trigger guard, backstrap, bbl, and cyl. Last 4-digits of SN are written in ink in backstrap channel of grip. Frame has "RAC" stamp above SN. Cyl shows "RAC" and "P" on periphery. Trigger guard has "K" proof in front of bow. Backstrap has "K" proof behind SN. Grip has "SEB" cartouche on left side with "1890" over cartouche. Right side of grip shows "RAC" cartouche. PROVENANCE: Colt Factory letter confirming delivery to the U.S. Government inspector on April 30,1890. CONDITION: Very fine. Bbl retains 90% bright-blue finish with visible feather marks around front-sight and ejector rod stud. Blue has flaked slightly on right side of bbl address toward the breech where it has turned a plumb-brown patina. All bbl marks are sharp. Front-sight is full-sized, ejector rod housing shows 90% blue with front edge wear. Frame retains 90% of the slightly faded case color that is vivid under loading gate and in gullets in front of cyl. Frame markings are sharp. Frame screws show considerable blue. Hammer retains 90% case color on both sides front and rear. Trigger shows considerable blue. Trigger guard shows 95% blue. Slightly faded on forestrap. Backstrap shows 90% blue with some light scratches down back side and on butt. Cyl shows 80% blue finish that has flaked somewhat, has high edge wear, and a slight drag-mark. Cyl flutes show strong blueberry color. Cyl markings are sharp. Grip is fine with nearly all the oil finish, sharp cartouches, and a few small handling marks. There are 2 small dents on the right side of butt. A wonderfully preserved example of a Colt Single Action Cavalry revolver shipped in 1890. 52154-7

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1.178.0.1875.f3727f4.14.140