Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Saturday, August 24, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Saturday, August 24, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
Auction closed.
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Large variety of antique and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com
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Pg : 6 of 24

Colt London Agency Cased Pair of Colt Third Model Derringers

Lot # 1125 (Sale Order: 126 of 581)      

Colt London Agency Cased Pair of Colt Third Model Derringers -A) Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer

Colt London Agency Cased Pair of Colt Third Model Derringers -A) Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer
Manufacturing began in 1870, this example has the later style "sloped hammer" as well a "F.F.Baker.88 Fleet St.London" retailer inscription on the back strap. It has standard markings and features as well as British proofs, the "C/Rampant Colt" marking on the left, and matching serial numbers on the left of the grip frame and bottom of the barrel ("852"). Includes an oak case with Colt London Agency interior label that is fitted for both pistols.

Manufacture: Colt
Model: #3 Derringer
BBL: 2 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 41 RF
Finish: nickel
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 32852
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Condition: Very fine, retains 90% plus of the original nickel finish with a few scattered light handling marks and specks of flaking. The grips are fine with some minor high spot wear/varnish flaking. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with scattered light handling/storage marks and the center divider of the interior detached.

B) Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer
Manufactured beginning in 1870, this example is fitted with the early "high spur" hammer. Standard markings and features as well as British proofs, "C/Rampant Colt" marking on the left, and matching serial number on the left of the grip frame, bottom of the barrel, and inside each grip in ink.

Manufacture: Colt
Model: #3 Derringer
BBL: 2 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 41 RF
Finish: nickel
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 10664
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine, retains 85% plus of the original nickel finish with some light flaking at the muzzle and breech of the barrel. The grips are also very fine with some light high spot wear. Mechanically excellent.

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Factory Engraved Colt Open Top Pocket Spur Trigger Revolver

Lot # 1126 (Sale Order: 127 of 581)      

Very Fine Documented Factory Engraved Colt Open Top Pocket Spur Trigger Revolver with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1875, the top of the barrel is marked with the standard Colt two-line address flanked by Maltese crosses while the left of the frame is marked "22 CAL". The frame, barrel, and cylinder have flourishes of factory floral scroll engraving. The serial number is marked on the butt, bottom of the barrel, and in pencil on the inside of each of the smooth antique ivory grips (very faint inside right grip). The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, including the grips and engraving, as well as shipment to B. Kittredge & Co. in Cincinnati, Ohio on 1 December 1875.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retains 85% plus of the original nickel finish with a few spots of minor flaking/edge wear and some light flash pitting near the front of the cylinder and breech of the barrel. The grips are also very fine with an attractively aged tone and a few scattered light handling marks. Mechanically excellent.

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Silver Plated National Arms Company No. 2 Derringer

Lot # 1127 (Sale Order: 128 of 581)      

Scarce 2 Inch Barrel, Silver Plated Engraved National Arms Company No. 2 Brass Frame Derringer

Only 200 National Arms Co. No. 2 derringers were produced with short 2 inch barrels between 1865 and 1870. Although iron frames were generally less common than brass frames, knowledgeable collectors account for only five short barrel examples known with brass frames. The top of the scarce, 2 inch barrel has the one line address with the serial number on the underside. The assembly number "BB26" is stamped on the left frame side under the grip and on the right grip panel. The inside of both grips are stamped "BB/26". It has the standard scroll engraving, full silver plating, and checkered walnut grips.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retains 85% plus of the original silver plating which shows an attractively aged patina with some scattered small patches of light flaking/pitting on the barrel and crisp engraving. The grips are also very fine with a few scattered light dings and crisp checkering. It does not hold at full cock, otherwise mechanically fine.

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Colt Sheriff's Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 1128 (Sale Order: 129 of 581)      

Rare Documented Seattle, Washington Shipped Black Powder Colt Sheriff's Model Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Offered here is a Colt Single Action Army revolver in highly sought after "Sheriff's Model" configuration with factory documented 3 1/2 inch barrel and shipped to the Western frontier. The ejectorless Colt "Sheriff's Model" Single Action Army revolver is one of the rarest and most sought after variations of the legendary Peacemaker. In "The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver, 1873-1895" the authors stressed the rarity of the ejectorless Single Action Army as a whole (barrel lengths ranged from 2 1/2 to 7 1/2 inches in the study) and state that "just under 600 ejectorless Single Action Army revolvers were produced in all calibers from 1882 to the 1930s." Based on the authors' research, Colt only produced 24 Sheriff's Models with a 3 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 WCF and blue finish in the 1-164100 serial number range (page 338). You are certainly looking at a rare Colt! Adding to the gun's desirability is the fact that it was shipped to Seattle, Washington. Whether on the hip of a lawman, carried by an outlaw or under the counter of a storekeeper's shop, the "Sheriff's Model" Colt Single Action Army was at the front lines of the American frontier. This example has all the appearance of serving as a trustworthy companion. The factory letter states the revolver was shipped on March 19, 1890 to Gordon, Hardware Co. of Seattle, Washington, with a 3 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 caliber, blue finish, and hard rubber stocks. This was a two-gun shipment. The revolver correctly lacks an ejector rod. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top and the iconic "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" stamped on the left side. The underside of the barrel carries "44" in small font for the caliber designation. The left side of the frame has the three-line, three-date marking. The left side of the trigger guard is marked "44 CAL." Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Class: Antique

Very good. The revolver has 30% blue with the balance a smooth mottled brown patina with strong traces of the original blue finish in the cylinder flutes. The frame has 30% of the case colors present, mostly in the forward portion with the balance a mottled silver gray patina, with shadows of the once present case colors. The correct style replacement grips are fine, having faded to brown showing some small areas of moderate wear in the otherwise crisp checkering. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. A truly exceptional, crisp Colt Sheriff's Model 44-40 revolver that would be difficult to find a duplicate as fine as this example!

Provenance: The Gateway Collection

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Inscribed J.L. Davis Sheriff Sutton County Texas Badge

Lot # 1129 (Sale Order: 130 of 581)      

Historic Inscribed J.L. Davis Sheriff Sutton County Texas Badge with Extensive Documentation

Created in 1887 and organized in 1890, Sutton County is located in south-central Texas with the county seat of Sonora. This very desirable sheriffs badge is inscribed "J.L. DAVIS/SHERIFF/SUTTON COUNTY" and is in the rare form of a seven-pointed star, with each point having ornate floral designs. James L. Davis was born in 1855 in Elgin City, Texas to a farm family. At age 19 in 1874, Davis joined the newly formed Texas Rangers and served in Company D of the Frontier Battalion. This was during the post-reconstruction period when the urgent need for law enforcement was spurring a resurgence of the Rangers which had been whittled away during the Civil War and after. The Frontier Battalions saw significant action in the lawless areas along the Mexican border during the period. In the 1890s Davis moved his family to Sonora in Sutton County, Texas and by 1892 was serving as a Sutton County deputy sheriff. On 2 April 1901, the notorious outlaw Will Carver, a member of Butch Cassidy's "Wild Bunch" gang, was shot and killed by Sutton County deputies, including Davis. The sheriff had been warned of Carver's arrival, who came with an accomplice to scout the bank in Sonora, which they planned to rob. The sheriff, Davis, another deputy, and the town constable all went to apprehend the two with guns drawn. After a shout of "hands up!", Will Carver drew his gun and the lawmen opened fire. Both Carver and his accomplice were killed. In 1902, Davis was elected Sutton County Sheriff and went on to serve two terms, after which he retired and operated a ranch near Sonora. In July 1914, while visiting Mineral Wells, Texas, a large fire broke out involving many buildings. Davis attempted to help, having been previously a volunteer fireman. He was overcome by smoke and heat exhaustion and died not long after at the age of 59. Included with the badge is a binder of extensive research about J.L. Davis, Will Carver, and others, as well as photographs.

Class: Other

Very fine, the badge shows a mostly bright, attractive, lightly aged patina with crisp designs and engraving. A real tangible piece of Texas lawman history documented to a Texas Ranger and County sheriff!

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Colt No. 1 Single Shot Deringer with Iron Grips

Lot # 1130 (Sale Order: 131 of 581)      

Exceptional and Rare Colt No. 1 Single Shot Deringer with Iron Grips and British Proofs

Built between 1870 and 1890, this was the first single shot pistol produced by Colt after they purchased the patent rights from National Arms Co. German Silver half-moon front sight and hammer notch rear sight. The top of the barrel is marked "+COLT'S PT.F.A. MFG. Co./ HARTFORD CT. U.S.A./ No1+". The underside of the barrel is marked with British proof marks and then the serial number. The frame has some light floral scroll engraving and a checkered spur trigger and hammer. "41 CAL" is stamped directly below the barrel latch. The grip area is solid iron, with shallow checkering on the sides, deep, sharp checkering on the back strap, and the serial number repeated on the butt.

Class: Antique

Extremely fine. The barrel has 75% of the bright original blue finish remaining with thinning blue at the muzzle and along the high edge showing scattered surface scratches. The frame compliments the barrel and retains 90% original silver also showing some high edge wear and isolated spotting. The trigger and hammer show areas of brilliant original casehardening colors. Mechanically fine. A rare Colt No. 1 Deringer in outstanding condition.

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Colt Etched Panel New Line .41 Spur Trigger Revolver

Lot # 1131 (Sale Order: 132 of 581)      

Exceptional Colt Etched Panel New Line .41 Spur Trigger Revolver

Manufactured in 1876, the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address on top, "COLT NEW 41" in an etched panel on the left, and the patent date on the bottom. The matching serial number is on the left of the grip frame, bottom of the barrel, and partial ("508") on the rear face of the cylinder. The left of the frame is marked "41CAL C". It has standard features and is fitted with a pair of smooth walnut grips.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine, retains 90% plus of the original nickel finish and 75% of the original nitre blue on the hammer with the balance having flaked to expose a mostly smooth grey patina, a few small patches of which are showing some light pitting, and a crisp etched panel. There is a minor ding in the front sight. The grips are excellent with some scattered very light handling marks and retaining almost all of the varnish. Mechanically excellent.

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Factory Engraved Colt Etched Panel New Line .22 Revolver

Lot # 1132 (Sale Order: 133 of 581)      

Excellent Factory Engraved Colt Etched Panel New Line .22 Spur Trigger Revolver with Pearl Grips

Manufactured in 1876 with the standard two-line address on top of the barrel, "COLT NEW 22" on the left in an acid etched panel. The left of the frame is marked "22 CAL". The revolver has 75% coverage factory floral scroll and geometric pattern engraving. It is fitted with a blade front sight, frame top groove rear sight, and a pair of smooth factory antique pearl grips. The barrel is numbered to the gun.

Class: Antique

Excellent, retaining 95% original nickel finish with some scattered flaking and crisp engraving. Acid etched panel is nearly all intact. The grips are also excellent with highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent.

Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman

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Engraved Silver and Gold Plated Colt New Line .32 Revolver

Lot # 1133 (Sale Order: 134 of 581)      

New York Engraved Silver and Gold Plated Colt New Line .32 Spur Trigger Revolver with Desirable Gold Plated Dog's Head DeGress "Tiffany" Grips

This revolver was manufactured in 1874, just two years before Colt presented its famous "wheel" display at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition, and is listed in the factory letter as shipped along with 60 other guns to H&D Folsom Arms Co. in New York, which is documented as having received many of the Colt revolvers that made up the famous display. There is no date for the shipment in the factory letter. This particular example is not listed by serial number on the known list of "wheel" guns that were shipped to H&D Folsom, which includes approximately 90 revolvers, however it does bear a very similar level of embellishment. The included factory letter lists this revolver with a blue and casehardened finish and varnished rosewood grips when it shipped, with no mention of the engraving. The engraving along with the silver and gold finishes that it shows now are certainly of high quality and were likely applied by Folsom to emulate the other highly embellished exposition Colt revolvers they were receiving around the time. The engraving encompasses most of the surfaces and is New York style floral scroll. The standard two-line Colt address is on top of the barrel with "COLT NEW 32" on the left in an etched panel that was plated over, and "32 CAL" is on the left of the frame. The matching serial number is on the left of the grip frame, bottom of the barrel, and rear face of the cylinder ("753"). This example has also been fitted with an exceptionally attractive pair of DeGress gold plated grips with "PAT APR 28. 74" on the left, a dog head on the right, and scroll patterns. It is fitted with blade front and groove rear sights.

Class: Antique

Fine with 60% of the period retailer applied silver plating and 20% of the gold on the cylinder with some scattered patches of light flaking/pitting and crisp engraving overall. The grips retain 75% of the gold plating in sheltered areas with light handling wear on high spots. Mechanically fine.

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Factory Engraved Colt Open Top Pocket Spur Trigger Revolver

Lot # 1134 (Sale Order: 135 of 581)      

Very Fine Documented Factory Engraved Colt Open Top Pocket Spur Trigger Revolver with Box and Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1874, the top of the barrel is marked with the standard Colt two-line address flanked by Maltese crosses while the left of the frame is marked "22 CAL". The frame, barrel, and cylinder have flourishes of factory floral scroll engraving. The serial number is marked on the butt, with the partial matching serial number "537" on the bottom of the barrel and in pencil on the inside of each of the smooth antique ivory grips. Includes a scarce factory box marked for "COLT'S/SEVEN SHOT PISTOL". The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, including the grips and engraving, as well as shipment to B. Kittredge & Co. in Cincinnati, Ohio, on 2 February 1875.

Class: Antique

Very fine, retains 85% plus of the original nickel finish with the mild flaking concentrated near the front of the cylinder and barrel breech and crisp engraving. The grips are fine with a few hairline age cracks and showing an attractively aged tone overall. Mechanically excellent. The box is very good with some separated corners and moderate wear/staining.

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Factory Engraved Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 1135 (Sale Order: 136 of 581)      

Documented Factory Deluxe Engraved Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Carved Ox Head Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

There are few firearms that exude the character, grit, and style of the American frontier like the Colt Single Action Army revolver. The revolver found itself almost immediately popular as a sidearm upon its release in 1873, and that popularity continued well into the 20th century among those with a desire for unwaveringly reliable firepower. This documented factory engraved example with factory carved pearl grips displays a certain flair that is often associated with the "Wild West", having the look of a gun that is not hard to imagine in the hand of a flamboyant Texas gunslinger. Adding credence to this revolver's potential former life, is the fact that the included factory letter lists it as having shipped on December 26, 1890, to E.C. Meacham Arms of St. Louis, Missouri, the gateway to the West. This was a single gun shipment. Along with the shipment information, the factory letter confirms the 7 1/2 inch barrel in .45 caliber, nickel finish, factory engraving, and carved ox head motif grip with type of grip material not listed. On page 335 in the "The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver 1873-1895," the author accounted for only 258 factory engraved SAAs in the 1-164100 serial number range with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .45 caliber. The authors also noted that in 1890, when this revolver was shipped, Colt sold 2,218 SAAs with only 4 revolvers with a 7 1/2 inch barrel featuring factory engraving (page 233).The profuse deluxe engraving is indicative of the classic Wild West style of Colt Master Engraver Cuno Helfricht and his shop. Fan patterns decorate the recoil shield, loading gate, and behind the hammer. The cylinder is decorated with zig-zag line and dot motifs along with flourishes of scrollwork on each chamber. Zig-zag line and dot patterns cover the top strap. The back strap has a blank inscription panel flanked by additional zig-zag line and dot patterns. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top and "45 COLT" in a banner on the left side amongst the scrollwork. The two-line patent date marking is stamped on the left side of the frame. The revolver wears a set of pearl grips with a relief ox head carved on the right panel. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Class: Antique

Very good displaying the grit and grime of an SAA that spent a lifetime of service in a challenging environment proving that not all art hangs on the wall with traces of original nickel plating in the protected areas and heavier amounts of original nickel on the underside of the barrel. The slightly oversize grips are also very good showing similar "working gun" character from spending time in the hand and a few chips. Mechanically excellent. A documented factory engraved and relief carved pearl stocked Colt Single Action Army Revolver with a story to tell!

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Framed Collotype Print of L. A. Huffman's "The Old Lu Bar Camp"

Lot # 1136 (Sale Order: 137 of 581)      

Framed Collotype Print of L.A. Huffman's "The Old Lu Bar Camp"

L.A. Huffman (1835-1931), an immensely influential and historically important frontier photographer of the American West, documented Montana's cowboys, ranchers, landscapes and native populations in their natural states. "The Old Lu Bar Camp" displays a scene all too common amidst the ever changing western landscape. A dilapidated structure that more than likely housed buffalo hunters at one time sits abandoned against the snowy Montana landscape. The image is housed in a 26 3/8 inch by 16 7/8 inch frame and has "L.A. Huffman" in the lower right corner.

Class: Other

Excellent with limited storage and handling marks and a distinct image.

Provenance: The John Fox Collection

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Pair of Factory Engraved Colt Third Model Derringers

Lot # 1137 (Sale Order: 138 of 581)      

Exceptionally Fine London Cased Pair of Factory Engraved and Silver Plated Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistols -A) Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistol

Exceptionally Fine London Cased Pair of Factory Engraved and Silver Plated Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistols -A) Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistol
Colt's Third Model derringer was the first design for a derringer pistol developed in-house by the company, with both their First and Second Models having been designs acquired from their takeover of the National Arms Co. The Third Model derringer was a total redesign which was done by a longtime Colt gunsmith, F. Alexander Thuer. Thuer is credited with three different patents during his time with Colt, the first for a metallic cartridge conversion system for percussion revolvers, the second for tools for reloading the cartridges for said conversion, and the third for these derringer pistols. The No. 3, Third Model, or "Thuer" derringer patent was granted on 12 July 1870, and the model would go on to become Colt's most popular derringer model by far, being produced until 1912. The derringers were extremely popular in both Britain and North American, probably due, in large part, to the greatly expanding industrialized urban centers on both continents. Such highly populated areas led to increases in crime, especially mugging, leading to a strong desire for many to carry a concealed form of protection such as these pistols. By the end of production in 1912, approximately 48,000 of these derringers were produced, though highly embellished pairs such as these remain scarce, especially in the extremely high condition these two show. Though their serial numbers are 24 digits apart, these two have, without a doubt, been paired since leaving the factory. This outstanding pair show the later production features such as the sloping hammer and the slightly more open grip profile. They both feature beautifully executed factory floral scroll engraving which encompasses approximately three-quarters of the surfaces and the small parts are nitre blued. They have the standard "-COLT-" marking in italics on top of the barrels. The serial numbers are marked on the left side of the grip frames and on the bottom of the barrels. The frames are both marked "41CAL" on the left and there are small British proofs on the bottom of the barrels. They are both fitted with blade front sights and smooth grips. Includes a oak presentation style case fitted for both guns lined with navy blue baize with a reproduction Colt London Agency label inside the lid, a cleaning rod, key, a Dr. Joseph A. Murphy collection tag, and two .41 RF cartridges.

Manufacture: Colt
Model: #3 Derringer
BBL: 2 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 41 RF
Finish: blue/silver
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 6604
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Condition: Exceptionally fine, retains 95% plus of the original blue and silver finishes with some light high spot wear showing a smooth grey patina, a few light handling marks, and crisp engraving overall. The grips are very fine with a few light handling marks, and a couple minor blemishes in the otherwise nearly complete original varnish. Mechanically excellent. The case is very fine with some light handling/storage wear.

B) Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Pistol
See "A".

Manufacture: Colt
Model: #3 Derringer
BBL: 2 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 41 RF
Finish: blue/silver
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 6628
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Condition: Excellent, retains 90% plus of the original blue and 97% original silver finishes with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina, a few scattered patches of light surface pitting, and crisp engraving overall. The grips are excellent with a few light handling marks and almost all of the original varnish. Mechanically excellent. An incredibly attractive pair of engraved, London cased, Colt Third Model derringers!
Provenance: The John Woodward Collections; The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collections, The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection

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Factory Engraved Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 1138 (Sale Order: 139 of 581)      

Documented Factory Engraved Antique Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

There are few firearms that exude the character, grit, and style of the American frontier like the Colt Single Action Army revolver. The revolver found itself almost immediately popular as a sidearm upon its release in the mid-late 1800s, and that popularity continued well into the 20th century among those with a desire for unwaveringly reliable firepower. This documented factory engraved example with period pearl grips displays a certain flair that is often associated with the "wild west", having the look of a gun that is not hard to imagine in the hand of a flamboyant Texas gunslinger. Adding credence to this revolver's potential former life, is the fact that the included factory letter lists it as having shipped on October 15, 1895 to E.C. Meacham Arms of St. Louis, Missouri, the gateway to the West. This was a single gun shipment. Along with this shipment information, the factory letter confirms the 4 3/4 inch barrel in .45 caliber, nickel finish, and factory engraving with the type of stocks listed as hard rubber which have since been replacement with highly attractive pearl. On page 333 in "The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver 1873-1895," the authors accounted for only 47 factory engraved SAAs in the 1-164100 serial number range in this configuration (4 3/4 inch barrel, .45 caliber, nickel finish, hard rubber stocks). The scroll engraving is indicative of patterns used by Colt master engraver Cuno Helfricht and his shop. Fan patterns decorate the recoil shield, loading gate, and behind the hammer, scrollwork and star burst patterns alternate on the cylinder chambers, wavy line pattern on the ejector rod housing, and zig-zag line motifs are seen throughout. The barrel has the two-line Colt Hartford address on top and "45 COLT" in a banner on the left side amongst the scrollwork. The two-line patent date marking is stamped on the left side of the frame followed by an encircled Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. As told in the accompanying February 2023 dated letter of provenance from previous owner Mark Wasserkrug, "the story accompanying the firearm is that it once was the possession of Frank James, brother of Jesse James. The firearm is alleged to have been given to a ranch worker on the James ranch by Jesse and Frank James mother as payment for work on the ranch/farm." Wasserkrug does admit that "this story cannot be substantiated." However, it should be noted Jesse's mother, Zerelda Samuel, often sold guns she said belonged to her outlaw son. She also hosted paid tours of the James farmhouse and allowed tourists to visit Jesse's grave and purchase pebbles from the site which she regularly replaced from the stream. The older brother of Jesse, Frank was part of the James-Younger gang and was involved in at least four robberies that resulted in several murders. The most infamous robbery was the disastrous Northfield, Minnesota, raid that ended in the death or capture of most of the gang. Several months after the death of Jesse, Frank surrendered to authorities and was tried for two robberies but was acquitted. In his final years, Frank gave tours of the family farm.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% original nickel finish with holster type wear and scattered light flaking. The engraving is crisp. The grips are excellent with minimal handling marks and fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. A documented factory engraved black powder Colt Single Action Army revolver that displays nicely.

Provenance: The Mark Wasserkrug Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Fluted Cylinder

Lot # 1139 (Sale Order: 140 of 581)      

Outstanding Documented One of the Finest Known Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Very Scarce Long Fluted Cylinder in .41 Colt, Original Box and Factory Letter as Photographed in A Study of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Colt introduced the .41 Colt caliber to its famed Single Action Army revolver line in 1885. Colt author David Brown passionately summarized the .41 Colt caliber's alluring image as: "The .41s were favorites in the West among men who wanted something a bit less husky than the .45 or the .44-40, yet something still dependable for man-stopping power at short ranges. The lawmen for the most part, clung to the bigger bores; but several famous outlaws are known to have liked the .41 Colts" (see "The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," p. 146). Among First Generation Single Action Army revolvers, only 16,402 left the factory chambered for .41 Long Colt compared to 150,683 in .45 Colt, making it comparably scarce. Making this SAA even more desirable and rare is that it is factory documented as shipped in 1913 with a long fluted cylinder. The double action long flute cylinders are rare as Colt only assembled 626 single action revolvers in 1913 (1,478 total from 1913-1915) utilizing surplus cylinders from the Model 1878 revolvers per Graham, Kopec, and Moore on page 156 of "A Study of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver". SAAs with the long fluted cylinder are rare and even rarer in high condition such as this example. In fact, this is one of the finest long fluted cylinder SAAs in existence. This SAA is well deserving of the finest private or public collections and stands as a benchmark in Colt collecting. The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped to Simmons Hardware Co. of St. Louis, Missouri, the Gateway to the West, with a 4 3/4 inch barrel in .41 caliber, blue finish, double action cylinder with long flute configuration, and type of stocks not listed. The long fluted cylinder is listed under "special features" in the factory letter. This was a five gun shipment. The second, older included Colt factory letter (copy) from 1970 is addressed to noted Colt collector George S. Lewis, Jr. As one fellow collector put it, Lewis amassed "one of the classic Colt collections of all time." RIAC has had the pleasure of cataloging the George S. Lewis, Jr. collection, including in this auction where you will find several of Lewis' finest Colts. This phenomenal Colt certainly reaches Lewis' discerning taste in firearm collecting. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top and "41 COLT" on left side. The frame has the three-line patent date marking followed by a Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and both grip panels ("0365"). The matching assembly number appears on the rear of the frame and loading gate. Includes the original Colt factory box numbered to the gun, "Proper Ammunition" leaflet, specials instructions, and bore brush. The revolver along with its box was pictured and identified in "A Study of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver" on page 161 where it is cited as "one of the two finest Long Flutes known" and from the George S. Lewis, Jr. collection.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Excellent plus, retaining 97% plus bright original polished blue finish with some minor flaking mostly on the grip straps and ejector rod housing and partial cylinder drag lines. The hammer and frame retain 99% original vibrant case colors. The grips are excellent with crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The box is fair. As one of only two finest known fluted cylinder SAAs, this magnificent Colt Peacemaker will be a crown jewel to any SAA collection. If you are looking for the very best in condition and rarity this is it!

Provenance: The George S. Lewis Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 1140 (Sale Order: 141 of 581)      

Exceptional Special Order Black Powder Colt Acid Etched Panel Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver Inscribed to a Prominent Civil War Veteran with Factory Letter

The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped on May 11, 1886 to Kennedy Brothers of Minneapolis, Minnesota and confirms the 4 ¾ inch barrel in .44-40 caliber, nickel finish, and grip material. This was a two gun shipment. The back strap is inscribed with the name “C.E. HAMBLEN.” Consignor research identified C.E. Hamblen as Charles E. Hamblen a Massachusetts native and a Civil War veteran. Period records show that Hamblen was in New Orleans in 1870, in Minneapolis working as a dry goods wholesaler in 1880, and in 1887 he was living in Spokane, Washington working in real estate, so he would have been living in Minneapolis when Colt shipped this SAA. The consignor’s genealogy research is included. During the Civil War Hamblen served with Company H, 38th Massachusetts Infantry, a regiment that took heavy casualties at the Battle of Cedar Creek on October 19, 1864. This battle was a Union victory and laid waste to the Confederate army in the Shenandoah Valley which never again threatened Washington, D.C. When introduced in 1877, the .44-40 W.C.F. Single Action Army, or Frontier Six Shooter, was intended to be used in conjunction with another legendary western icon, the Winchester Model 1873 rifle, which came standard in the same chambering. "The .44-40 W.C.F. was added to the list of Colt calibers for use with the popular Winchester rifle of the same caliber," wrote Colt author David Brown. "This combination of a rifle and a six shooter using the same cartridge made it possible for their user to buy only one kind of ammunition, and he could carry 'fodder' for both guns in the same cartridge belt." This example has the standard two-line address on top of the barrel and the highly sought after "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in an acid etched panel on the left. The barrel is also marked "44" on the bottom for the caliber. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line patent dates. The left side of the trigger guard is marked "44 CAL." As stated the back strap is inscribed "C.E. HAMBLEN." Matching serial numbers are visible on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and both grip panels. The revolver has the desirable nickel plating.

Class: Antique

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% original nickel plating with a smooth gray patina on the balance. Nearly all of the acid etched panel remains. The slightly age shrunken original grips are excellent with a few age lines and highly attractive color and grain. Mechanically excellent. A very desirable documented nickel plated acid etched panel black powder Colt Frontier Six Shooter SAA revolver once owned by a Civil War veteran.

Provenance: The TTT Collection

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Framed Print of L.A. Huffman's "Barringer's Ranch"

Lot # 1141 (Sale Order: 142 of 581)      

Framed Print of L.A. Huffman's "Barringer's Ranch"

L.A. Huffman (1835-1931), an immensely influential and historically important frontier photographer of the American West, documented Montana's cowboys, ranchers, landscapes and native populations in their natural states. "Barringer's Ranch" depicts a log ranch building with a stone chimney and mostly roofed with the breaking pen on the right. In the background are fields of crops to sustain the ranch and a magnificent Montana mountain range. The Barringer Ranch, formerly the Groom Ranch, was located on the Tongue River near Ashland, Montana. The print is housed in a 20 3/4 inch by 14 7/8 inch frame with black and matting. Marked at the bottom of the print, "BARRINGERS RANCH TONGUE RIVER 1899" with "LA Huffman" on the lower right. Ranches like this served as hubs of the cattle economy of early Montana, and forming grounds of the legendary cowboy, America’s favorite folk hero.

Class: Other

Very fine with some light storage and handling marks on the frame with a distinct image on the print itself.

Provenance: The John Fox Collection

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Colt Sheriff's Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 1142 (Sale Order: 143 of 581)      

Desirable Documented New Orleans Shipped Black Powder Colt Sheriff's Model Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1899 in "Sheriff's Model" configuration with factory documented 3 1/2 inch barrel. The ejectorless Colt "Sheriff's Model" Single Action Army Revolver is one of the rarest and most sought after variations of the legendary Peacemaker. In "The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver, 1873-1895" the authors stressed the rarity of the ejectorless SAAs as a whole (barrel lengths ranged from 2 1/2 to 7 1/2 inches in the study) and state that "just under 600 ejectorless Single Action Army revolvers were produced in all calibers from 1882 to the 1930s." Based on Keith Cochran's estimates presented in "Colt Peacemaker Encyclopedia, Volume 1," only 32 SAAs out of the total Sheriff's Model production run were chambered in .41 caliber. Only those chambered in .38 Colt caliber had lower production numbers (8 units). While production numbers are still up for debate, this .41 caliber Sheriff's Model is certainly in a rare configuration missing from even the most advanced collections. The revolver correctly lacks an ejector rod. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top and "41 COLT" on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line, three-date marking followed by an encircled Rampant Colt. Matching numbers are found on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped to A. Baldwin & Co. of New Orleans, Louisiana, on April 26, 1899 with a 3 1/2 inch barrel in .41 caliber, blue finish, and type of stocks not listed. This was a six gun shipment. Whether on the hip of a lawman, carried by an outlaw or under the counter of a storekeeper's shop, the "Sheriff's Model" Colt SAA was at the front lines. This example has all the appearance of serving as a trustworthy companion.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Good displaying a brown-gray patina associated with a working revolver that spent a lifetime in the challenging environment of the American South with slight traces of faded original blue finish in the cylinder flutes. The slightly age shrunken grips are fine showing wear and tear from spending years in the hand and very attractive grain and mellow age appearance. The back strap has been polished in an attempt to remove inscription, which is illegible. Mechanically excellent. A New Orleans shipped black powder frame Colt Sheriff's Model Single Action Army Revolver showing the grime and grit of a true turn of the century working gun of the South.

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Camp County, Texas Sheriff's Badge with Inscription

Lot # 1143 (Sale Order: 144 of 581)      

Historic Camp County, Texas Sheriff's Badge with Inscription Attributed to Sheriff J.D. Stafford, a Confederate Cavalry Veteran

Established in 1874, Camp County is located in northeast Texas, the county seat being Pittsburg. This desirable sheriff's badge is attributed to having belonged to James D. Stafford (1847-1933), who served as county sheriff for two terms from 1884 to 1888 and from 1890 to 1904. Included documentation shows that Stafford enlisted in the Confederate army in November of 1863, serving in Company I of the 3rd Georgia Cavalry, and was discharged in 1865. Stafford is also noted in the documents as having served as a deputy sheriff before being elected, as well as having "a way of catching horse thieves and other fugitives from justice that is peculiar to himself. He catches them every time." The badge itself is a lightly engraved, six-pointed star that is marked "CAMP/SHERIFF/COUNTY TEX." at the center. The back of the badge is fitted with a pin and is inscribed "FRANCES to JIM". Frances is listed as Stafford's wife in the included documentation as well as on his death certificate, where it is misspelled "Francis" (not included).

Class: Other

Fine, retaining faint traces of the original silver plating with the balance an attractively aged brass and crisp engraving overall with minimal handling marks. An attractive piece of Texas history!

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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Colt Etched Panel Sheriff's Model 1877 Lightning Revolver

Lot # 1144 (Sale Order: 145 of 581)      

Historic Law Enforcement Identified Presentation Cased Three Digit Number Etched Panel Colt Sheriff's Model Lightning 1877 Double Action Revolver with Carved Pearl Grips

Manufactured in 1877, the first year of production, as an ejectorless "Sheriff's Model" variation with a desirable 3 1/2 inch barrel and two-piece pearl grips decorated with light carved border pattern at the top. The barrel has the sought after acid etched "COLT D.A. 38" panel on the left side. The top of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. "38 CAL" is marked on the left side of the trigger guard. Matching three digit serial number "106" appears on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The Model 1877 was designed by William Mason who was one of the inventors of Colts legendary Single Action Army revolver, and the model was Colt's first mass produced double action revolver. Whether on the hip of a lawman, carried by an outlaw or under the counter of a storekeeper's shop, these concealable pocket pistol Sheriff's Models were at the front lines. This example is in well above average condition of an early first year production and is housed in a presentation inscribed partitioned case. The case contains "L" shaped cleaning rod/screwdriver, case key, two cleaning rod attachments (do not fit aforementioned included cleaning rod), case key, and full count of a 50 box of Winchester Repeating Arms Co. .38 LC cartridges featuring a green label with the illustration of a Sheriff's Model 1877. The inlaid presentation brass plaque on the exterior of the lid reads, "E.W. Freeman/Presented by his friends/Tuesday Feb 27, 1877." In 1877, Freeman was a police officer for the City of Boston, and the date February 27, 1877 was a very noteworthy day in Freeman's life. On the evening of February 27th of that year "Freeman shot and mortally wounded Edward Rice" during an attempted arrest. As reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer, "[Freeman] was endeavoring to arrest a noted thief and garroter named Donovan, when he was set upon by the occupants of the room, eight in number, and finally compelled to use his revolver." The incident was investigated and a trial was conducted. A jury found "Freeman was fully justified in resorting to the extreme measures he felt compelled to adopt." In 1885, Freeman retired from the police force and died in 1899 at the age of 64. Consignor research is included.

Class: Antique

Excellent, retaining 95% original nickel plating with flaking mostly on the grip straps. Nearly all of clear acid etched panel remains. The small parts retain 95% plus original nitre blue. The grips are exceptionally fine with period added border etching, a tiny surface chip towards the top (right panel), otherwise highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with minor handing/storage marks and some typical high spot wear on the lining. A Colt Model 1877 Lightning revolver presented to a Boston police officer with quite a story to tell! An early production historic great addition to a law enforcement collection.

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Cattle Brand Engraved Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot # 1145 (Sale Order: 146 of 581)      

D.W. Harris Signed Cattle Brand Engraved First Generation Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Steer Head Carved Grip

This is a fine example of an iconic Colt Single Action Army revolver that was manufactured in 1922 and subsequently fully custom engraved by Master Engraver David Harris in the traditional Texas cattle brand pattern pioneered by Cole Agee and carried on by Weldon Bledsoe. This highly desirable pattern was developed in the 1940/50s and depicted the more prominent and historic Texas cattle brands used in the 1880s and early 1900s. The engraving covers nearly all of the surface and is in the typical Western style with the recognizable "2 Lazy(sideways) 2 P" as well as many other famous Texas brands, all on a punch dot background. Harris signed the butt. The revolver has standard Colt markings. The grip has a wonderful jeweled eyed relief carved steer head on the right side.

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

Very fine as custom embellished by Master Engraver David Harris, retaining 99% plus of the brushed nickel finish with limited handling marks. The grips are excellent with a couple hairline cracks at the toe (left side) and crisp carving. Mechanically excellent.

Provenance: The Gateway Collection

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Colt "The Old World Engraver Sampler" Single Action Army

Lot # 1146 (Sale Order: 147 of 581)      

Denise Thirion Factory Expert Engraved Colt Third Generation Single Action Army "The Old World Engravers Sampler" Revolver with Factory Letter and Case

The included factory letter lists this revolver as chambered in .45 Colt with a 5 1/2 inch barrel, nickel finish, buffalo horn with silver medallions grips, expert engraving performed by Denise Thirion when shipped to Lew Horton Dist. Co., Inc. in Westboro Massachusetts on September 19, 1997. The letter further remarks that the revolver features Class "B" expert level engraving emulating the patterns of Gustave Young, Louis Nimschke, Rudolph Kornbrath, and Cuno Helfricht, as well as the Colt Serpentine logo on the top of the backstrap inlaid in blue ceramic by Steve Kamyk. The right side of the frame is signed with Therion's intertwined "DT" initials. Includes a Colt glass top display case.

Class: Modern Handgun

Excellent overall, retaining 99% plus original nickel finish with minimal handling marks and crisp engraving. Mechanically excellent. Case is excellent.

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Cased Paul Mobley Engraved and Gold Inlaid Colt SAA Revolver

Lot # 1147 (Sale Order: 148 of 581)      

Documented and Cased Paul H. Mobley Signed, Engraved, and Gold Inlaid Colt Third Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Manufactured in 1978, with the included factory letter showing the revolver listed as chambered for .45 Long Colt with 5/12 inch barrel (likely recording error as barrel measures 4 3/4 inches), blue finish, and type of stocks not listed when sent in a lone shipment to D.E.L. Supply in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, on March 8, 1978. A letter from Jim Alaimo of Nutmeg Sports, LLC, dated July 20, 2009, indicates that the revolver (listed by serial number) was subsequently extensively embellished by former U.S. Secret Service member and engraver Paul H. Mobley (1941-1997), who was a part of the security team guarding President Ronald Regan when John Hinkley attempted an assassination on March 30, 1981. After his time with the U.S. Secret Service, Mobley became an engraving student under Colt Master Engraver Ken Hurst, adapting his own style and producing only a small body of work before his passing, with the letter further indicating this example was one of the last that he completed before his passing. Features fixed bad front and notch rear sights, with checker board style patterns on the barrel and front of the frame with floral bordering with punch dot engraving and gold inlaid bands on the barrel, cylinder, frame, and hammer, along with gold inlaid "rampant colt" logos on the recoil shield and frame. The triggerguard is marked "PAUL H. MOBLEY, ENG. '96" under the right panel. Includes a Colt marked oiled walnut display case with yellow felt interior and key.

Class: Modern Handgun

Excellent overall as embellished by Paul H. Mobley, retaining 99% plus blue, casehardened, and gold finishes with limited handling marks and crisp engravings. Mechanically excellent. Case is exceptionally fine.

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Engraved/Inlaid J.P. Sauer & Sohn Western Six Shooter Revolver

Lot # 1148 (Sale Order: 149 of 581)      

Spectacular Factory Deluxe Engraved and Gold Inlaid J.P. Sauer & Sohn Western Six Shooter Single Action Revolver with Relief Carved Grip and Box

Manufactured in Germany, this is an example of the firearms artistry produced by that nation's oldest firearms manufacturer. Nearly all of the metal surfaces of this revolver have been embellished with masterfully laid out flowing tight scroll which intricately flows from one surface to the other including the hammer and front sight. The barrel is inlaid with a gold band at the muzzle and at the frame, gold inlaid barrel markings, wire border around and on the ejector rod housing, frame, hammer, recoil shield, and loading gate borders with scrolled accents. The frame is also inlaid with six beautiful and excellently detailed animals creating a game scene on either side of the frame consisting of a pointer and two ducks on the left and a fox and a pair of pigeons on the right which are interspersed amongst the deeply cut engraving. The cylinder is engraved and inlaid to match the frame and barrel with the addition of floral scroll ring motifs between the cylinder stops flanked by one thick and one thin gold inlaid band. Import marked on underside of topstrap. The one piece grip has been beautifully relief carved on both sides with a bison skull surrounded by "THE/WESTERNER". Though the engraving and carving is unsigned, both are clearly the work of a skilled artisan. Includes a correct styrofoam box.

Class: Modern Handgun

Excellent overall, retaining 99% plus original blue finish, with minimal handling marks, a light cylinder drag line, and crisp engraving and grip carving. Mechanically excellent. Box is good. This would be a spectacular addition to any collection!

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1875 A.P. Casey Sub-Inspected Colt Cavalry Single Action Army

Lot # 1149 (Sale Order: 150 of 581)      

Exceptional 1875 Production A.P. Casey Sub-Inspected Colt Cavalry Model Single Action Army Revolver with John Kopec Gold Seal Letter

This virtually unused U.S. Contract Colt Cavalry Model Single Action revolver was manufactured in 1875. Nearly all of the Cavalry Model Single Action revolvers manufactured in 1875 were issued to U.S. Cavalry regiments on the frontier. The serial number of this revolver falls between the serial numbers of two revolvers issued to cavalry regiments: Serial No. 17004 was used by the Troop C, 5th Cavalry Regiment in 1886, and Serial No. 17128 was issued to Troop F, 7th Cavalry Regiment in 1888. The revolver has a military blue finish on the barrel, ejector housing, trigger guard and back strap. The frame, hammer and loading gate are color casehardened, and the one-piece walnut grip is oil-finished. The revolver has the early "bullseye" ejector rod head, first style ejector housing with barrel boss and "cavalry" hammer with bordered elongated knurling on the spur and cone-shaped firing pin. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the first style, "script" barrel address "+ COLT"S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. +" with slanted crosses at either end. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt, "two-date/two-line" patent marking followed by a small "U.S." property mark. The assembly number "807" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The small "C" sub-inspection mark used by A. P. Casey is stamped below the serial number on the trigger guard and on the right heel of the grip. A second "J" Ordnance sub-inspection mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel and on the side of the cylinder. Dual inspected Cavalry Model revolvers like this example are very scarce. A "P" proof mark is stamped on the underside of the barrel below the sub-inspection mark and on the side of the cylinder. Colt "G" and "C" inspection marks are stamped below the ejector housing barrel boss. "C" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder and in the hammer well above the firing pin hole. The full serial number is stamped on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number "7018" is stamped on the barrel beneath the ejector housing and on the side of the cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match. The lower left side of the grip is stamped with the script initials "ACP" in a rectangle with rounded ends.In 2014 noted Colt historian and author John Kopec examined this Cavalry Model revolver, and his gold seal letter of authentication is included. The revolver was a new listing in the survey and fell between nos. 17015 (Artillery Model) and 17022 (New York Militia revolver) in the database. Although this revolver's serial number was not found in the National Archives, several other 7th Cavalry re-issues are found in this serial number range including nos. 16850, 17403, 17432, 17492, 17586, and 17647. At this time new recruits were assigned as replacements for the men lost at the Little Bighorn. These new recruits were known as "Custer Avengers." The cartouche is double struck; however, Kopec deemed the stamping to be "totally correct." Kopec noted the "outstanding condition of this revolver remains noteworthy when we consider that the Indian Wars were still being fought...This revolver remains in as perfect original condition as any collector would ever hope to find."

Class: Antique

Extremely fine. The revolver retains 70% plus of the original blue and 80% casehardened finish. The smooth dark patina on the barrel and other blue components and the original blue finish have merged into an attractive blue-brown patina. Considerable amounts of the original blue finish remains visible in good light. The "feathered" polishing marks on either side of the front sight blade are visible on the barrel. The cylinder has most of the original blue finish with high point wear and a drag line between the stops. The frame, hammer and loading gate show silvering or age spotting on contact points but retain most of the original casehardened finish with strong case colors in protected areas. The markings on the barrel, frame and other components are crisp. The grip is very fine with light-moderate handling wear and clear inspection marks on the lower left side and right heel. The frame and grip screws show significant amounts of niter blue finish. Mechanically excellent. This is an outstanding example of a very scarce and highly desirable, 1875 production Indian War Colt Cavalry Model Single Action revolver with dual "C" and "J" sub-inspection marks.

Provenance: The Gateway Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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1.178.0.1183.eeb699a.12.254