Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army (SAA) – Early 2nd Generation
Serial Number: 15804SA
Year of Manufacture: 1957 (C&R Eligible)
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with a Side-Loading Gate and Fixed Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 2,72 JAN. 19,75” and with the rampant colt logo. The underside of the frame at the grip frame is marked “15804SA”, found again marked on the left of each portion of the grip frame (under the grip). The inside rear face of the loading gate is marked with the assembly number “892”, found again on the right rear of the frame and the front face of the cylinder. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with a “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “J”, the right is marked “P”. The rear face of the cylinder is marked with a Rampant Colt logo. The inside of each grip panel is hand-scribed “804”.
Barrel Length: 7.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch in the top strap.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered black hard rubber with rampant colt in oval at their tops. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Barrel & Cylinder with Case Colored Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp, and there is no visible erosion or fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains 98% of its original metal finish. There are no significant signs of wear, handling, or use, and the case coloring on the frame remains vivid. There is light oxidation forming on the frame near the trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are crisp. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver includes a period-correct Colt box with model-matching label and a non-matching serial hand-written on the bottom.
Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army is one of the most legendary revolvers in American history, and this 1957 Early 2nd Generation example is an outstanding representation of Colt’s master craftsmanship. When Colt reintroduced the SAA in 1956, the 2nd Generation models quickly became some of the most desirable Single Actions ever produced, benefiting from modern manufacturing while retaining the same hand-fitted quality and classic styling of their predecessors.
This revolver, with its 7.5-inch barrel, vivid case-colored frame, and 98% finish, is an exceptional collector’s piece. The high condition, bright bore, and period-correct box make it a true standout.
Colt 2nd Generation SAAs continue to appreciate in value, making them not only exceptional collectibles but also sound investments. Whether you are a serious Colt collector, a lover of classic revolvers, or someone looking for a pristine example of a legendary firearm, this 1957 Colt SAA is a remarkable find.