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/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #79

Premier Firearms Auction #79

June 05, 2020 to June 07, 2020

This auction has ended.

/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #79

Premier Firearms Auction #79

June 05, 2020 to June 07, 2020

This auction has ended.

Auction Time Summary

Preview DayThursday, Jun 4th10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION IFriday, Jun 5th9 AMLots 1 through 794

SESSION IISaturday, Jun 6th9 AMLots 1000 through 1789

SESSION IIISunday, Jun 7th9 AMLots 3000 through 3770

To Be Sold At Auction

Preview Day Thursday June 4th
Open at 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION I - Friday, June 5th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1 and 794
SESSION II - Saturday, June 6th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1000 and 1789
SESSION III - Sunday, June 7th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 3000 and 3770

Phone: 1-309-797-1500
Rock Island Auction Company
7819 42 Street West
Rock Island, Illinois, 61201, USA

Phone: 1-309-797-1500

Toll-Free: 1-800-238-8022

Email: [email protected]

Rock Island Auction Company - Rock Island

7819 42nd Street West

Rock Island, IL, 61201, USA

Page 1 of 7

Showing 1-50 of 308 results

Lot 72

Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver

The revolver was manufactured in 1865 and has mostly standard commercial markings and features, including matching visible serial numbers. However, the left side of the trigger guard has an unusual "44 36 CAL" (factory error) marking and the "3" in the serial number on the trigger guard is double stamped. The grip has a raised relief caving of a spread wing eagle with a rattle snake in one claw and its beak and perched on a cactus and surrounded by oak and laurel leaves along with a banner inscribed "REPUBLICA MEXICANA" at the bottom. The design is different from many of the post-Civil War Mexican coat of arms themed carved grips found on Colt revolvers. Mexico was a key market for Colt firearms following the Civil War when government contracts in the U.S. were reduced.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Scarce Historic Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver with "S.F. & P.L.R. Co." Inscription (San Francisco & Point Lobos Railroad Company)

Lot 73

Inscribed Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver

The attractive Colt Model 1861 Navy revolvers are among the rarest of the Colt percussion line. Only around 38,843 were manufactured in 1861-1873 compared to around 200,500 of the Model 1860 Army revolvers. Inscribed or otherwise unique Model 1861 Navies are valuable rarities. This revolver has "S.F. & P.L.R. Co." inscribed in nice script down the back strap. An included letter from California collector John Boessenecker indicates he believed the revolver, which was manufactured in 1864, might have been owned by a company called the "San Francisco & Point Lobos Railroad Company." Further research uncovered a San Francisco & Point Lobos Road Co. which operated a toll road starting in 1863 that ran from the corner of Bush St. and Presidio Ave. to the new Cliff House saloon/restaurant on Point Lobos Ave. overlooking the Pacific Ocean near the Golden Gate. The restaurant has been rebuilt multiple times over the years and is still an iconic San Francisco destination. Also includes a copy of a factory letter indicating no records related to this revolver were found. The revolver also has the standard markings and features. The serial numbers are all matching aside from the well-fitting replacement grip which is numbered "5807."

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Exceptional U.S. Colt Model 1860 Army Richards Cartridge Conversion Revolver

Lot 74

U.S. Colt Model 1860 Army Richards Conversion Revolver

This revolver was converted around the early 1870s for the U.S. government based on the designs of Charles Brinckerhoff Richards, Colt's Superintendent of Engineering, who was also one of the designers of the Colt Single Action Army just a couple of years later. The revolver is marked with the small "US" marking on the left side of the barrel above the wedge that identifies the U.S. contract conversion revolvers and also has small inspection marks on several components. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight and the one-line New York address. The cylinder has the standard Naval Battle of Campeche roll-scene, and the usual patent markings are on the cylinder and frame. The breechplate has an integral rear sight. The matching conversion serial number "522" on the barrel, frame, cylinder, breechplate, loading gate, butt, and rear mortise of the grip. In addition, traces of the original serial numbers are visible on the barrel, frame, and back strap. The arbor pin is marked "4268," and the trigger guard is marked "98112/146." "146" is also stamped on the wedge, and "641" (possibly an error) is marked on the ejector housing where it fits into the original loading lever slot. The front strap was originally on a commercial revolver given the silver-plated finish.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Colt CF

Price Realized:

Lot 75

Colt Second Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver

The combination of rectangular cylinder stops and square-back brass trigger guard clearly identify the revolver as a Second Model Dragoon, and U.S. contract Colt Dragoon revolvers were used primarily by the First and Second Dragoon Regiments and the U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen from 1849 into the Civil War era. Only an estimated 2,700 Second Model Dragoons revolvers were manufactured around 1850 and 1851 around the 8000-10700 serial number range. For comparison, 7,000 of the First Model Dragoons and 10,500 Third Model Dragoons were manufactured; thus, the Second Model Dragoons are by far the rarest of the primary Colt Dragoon revolvers. This U.S. contract revolver was manufactured in 1850 and has the scarcer U.S. Dragoons marking. It also has the correct early style vertical loading lever catch, hammer without a roller, and a v-shaped mainspring that secured via a barb in the front strap. The revolver has a German silver blade front sight, "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" on top of the barrel, the Texas Ranger and Indian running battle scene on the cylinder along with the rare "U.S. DRAGOONS" marking, "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." on the left side of the frame, "T" on the right trigger guard shoulder and left side of the hammer, "H" on the cylinder and top of the back strap, script "JH" and "WAT" cartouches on the grip, and matching partial or full serial numbers on the loading lever, barrel, wedge, cylinder, arbor pin, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The grip has "8141" in pencil in the mortise at the butt and along the back followed by what appears to be "8747" in black ink.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Exceptional U.S. Contract Colt Third Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver with Desirable U.S. Dragoons Marked Cylinder

Lot 76

U.S. Contract Colt Third Model Dragoon Revolver

The Third Model Dragoon revolvers are the last of the large .44 caliber Colt "revolving holster pistols" that began with the famous Colt Walker in 1847. This revolver was manufactured in 1859 under contract with the U.S. government. Most of these revolvers saw hard use on the frontier with the 1st and 2nd Dragoons and U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen and were subsequently used by both sides during the Civil War. U.S. issued Dragoons in high condition are hard to find. The revolver has the round brass trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops found on Third Model Dragoons. The top flat of the barrel is marked "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" and has a German silver blade front sight. The left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." The cylinder has the Indian fight scene and the desirable "U.S. DRAGOONS" marking. Matching serial numbers are found on the loading lever, cylinder, arbor pin, barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, and rear mortise of the grip (properly hand-written in black ink). The wedge is marked within the same serial number range, "8287," and may have been swapped during the period of use. It matches the condition of the revolver. The grip also has a distinct "ADK" cartouche on the left and crisp "WAT" cartouche on the right, and small inspection marks are found on various parts. The left side of the front grip strap is stamped "Court Myers.17 JUNE 1901." The significance of this marking is not clear.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Cased Exhibition Quality Gold Damascened Colt London Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 78

Gold Damascened Colt London Model 1851 Navy Revolver

Manufactured in 1855. This highly decorated, exhibition quality Colt London Model 1851 Navy features full coverage gold damascene floral pattern. The gold damascene was probably applied in India during the service life of the revolver and is an exceptional example of the damascene work occasionally found on Colt percussion revolvers that were used by British officers in India or Indian royalty. The revolver has the distinctive features of Colt London Model 1851 Navies: bordered knurling on the hammer spur, un-beveled loading cut-out, large iron oval trigger guard, iron back strap, large hammer notch and round screw heads. The top barrel flat is marked ""- ADDRESS COL. COLT LONDON - " with arrows at either end of the address in side a gold panel. The left side of the frame has "COLTS/PATENT" inside a gold panel. Gold filled London "Crown/V" and "Crown/CP" proof and inspection marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel lug and between each cylinder chamber. The full serial number appears on the frame, barrel, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, loading lever and arbor pin. The wedge has the last three digits of the serial number ("232"). The one-piece grip is nicely figured walnut. The period partitioned case comes with a cleaning rod, "L" shaped tool, Eleys No. 9 cap tin, Colt's Navy flask by James Dixon & Sons, and double cavity iron bullet mold marked "COLTS/PATENT."

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36 percussion

Price Realized:

Exceptional Cased "Hartford-London" Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 79

Cased London Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

This revolver was manufactured in 1855 for the London market while Colt's short-lived London factory was still in operation. The barrel has a cone front sight, London proofs, and "-ADDRESS COL. COLT LONDON-" on top. The cylinder has the standard Naval Battle of Campeche scene without the Ormsby signature and is also properly London proofed. The frame has "COLTS/PATENT" on the left. The trigger guard has "V" and "G" on the left. The grip straps are the usual Hartford silver-plated brass version. The grip is varnished walnut. Matching serial numbers are stamped on the loading lever, barrel, cylinder, arbor pin, frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the back strap inlet of the grip has "821" in black ink. The case has a red lining, an assortment of lead balls and conical bullets, an L-shaped combination tool, an oiler, a Colt patent dual cavity bullet mold, an Eley Bros. cap tin, a James Dixon & Sons bag shaped flask marked "COLTS NAVY FLASK," and a key.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 80

Cased Colt London Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

The handy Model 1849 Pocket was the most popular of all Colt percussion revolvers, but only around 11,000 were completed at the London factory before it closed in 1856 compared to around 26,000 Model 1851 Navy revolvers manufactured there making the London '49 Pockets particularly desirable. This one was manufactured in 1854 and has a brass cone front sight, "{ADDRESS. COL. COLT./LONDON.}" on top of the barrel, London proof and view marks on the barrel and cylinder, standard cylinder scene and patent markings, and matching serial numbers on the loading lever, barrel, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The arbor pin is not marked, and the wedge is marked "1225." The case has navy blue lining, a cleaning rod, L-shaped combination tool, Colt patent bullet mold, several lead balls, an Eley cap tin, key, and a bag shaped James Dixon & Sons flask marked "COLT POCKET FLASK."

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 82

Cased Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Manufactured in 1864 and featuring a brass cone front sight, the one-line New York address, standard patent markings and stagecoach scene, "31 CAL" on the left trigger guard shoulder, matching serial numbers (including hand-written in the back strap mortise of the grip), and "W P SMITH" stamped on the butt. Who Smith was is not documented. William Prescott Smith in 1864 was the Master of Transportation for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and multiple men named "W.P. Smith" fought on each side during the Civil War. The case also contains an Eley Bros. cap tin, lead balls and bullets, package of cartridges, key, Colt patent dual cavity bullet mold with "31 PKT" marking, and a double sided eagle powder flask. The Model 1849 Pocket was the most popular of all of Colt's percussion revolvers. They would certainly have been more convenient for those needing some personal protection in the gold fields and saloons of the West as well as the crowded and crime riddled streets of the large cities in the East compared to the larger Colt Dragoon revolvers or mid-sized Model 1851 Navy and definitely packed more firepower than many of the single and double shot pocket pistols of the day. During the Civil War, many were carried as personal sidearms.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 83

Colt Model 1861 Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver

Manufactured in the 1870s. Blade front and hammer notch rear sights, with the one-line New York address on the barrel, with the ejector mounted to the right side and a filled-in rammer slot. The cylinder and recoil shield have been properly reconfigured, with the 1871/1872 "Two July" patent dates on the frame, "B" and "36 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, and an unmarked set of one piece grips.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 CF

Price Realized:

Lot 84

Colt First Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver

The Colt Dragoon revolvers are important descendants of the Colt Walker and were important as some of Colt's first revolvers manufactured under contract with the U.S. government. Only 7,000 of these First Models were manufactured around 1848-1850. The three models of Dragoon revolvers were used by the 1st and 2nd Dragoons and Regiment of Mounted Riflemen on the frontier in the antebellum era and during the Civil War. Many of the Dragoons were used during the Civil War as well. There are portraits of Confederate and Union cavalrymen with various Dragoon models. This revolver was manufactured in 1848, the first year of production, and just one year after the Walkers. It features a German silver blade front sight, hammer notch rear sight, and matching numbers visible on the loading lever, wedge, arbor pin, cylinder, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Desirable Nickel Plated Late Production Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 85

Nickel Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver

This Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver was manufactured near the end of production in 1873. It is number 37765 of just 38,843 '61 Navies manufactured in 1861-1873. Aside from the special nickel plated finish, the exterior markings and features are standard, including all matching serial numbers (wedge blank, grip correctly marked "7765" in black ink). The unique stamping on this specific revolver is "B"/?/"N" stamped on the interior face of the recoil shield, obviously denoting nickel.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Civil War U.S. Contract Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver with Registration Card Indicating Ownership by Mexican President Jose Lopez Portillo

Lot 86

U.S. Contract Colt Model 1860 Army Revolver with Registration

This revolver is a U.S. contract Model 1860 Army manufactured in 1862 and has the standard markings and features, including matching visible serial numbers. It has more recently been inscribed with "ALFRED DARTE. CAPTAIN, CO. 'M'/-4TH PENNA. CAVALRY" in large letters on the left side of the barrel along with a small "H8" above the wedge. Alfred Darte Jr. rose from a private in the 25th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry to captain of Company M of the 4th Pennsylvania Cavalry during the Civil War and was wounded in hand-to-hand combat at Trevillian's Station in 1864 and subsequently honorably discharged and was a lawyer and judge after the war. Included with the revolver is a January 14, 1986, dated Mexican federal registration card identifying the revolver by serial number as registered to "LOPEZ PORTILLO P. JOSE." Jose Guillermo Abel Lopez Portillo y Pacheco was the 51st President of Mexico from 1976 to 1982.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Rare Gold and Nickel Plated Thuer Conversion Colt Model 1860 Army Revolver

Lot 88

Gold and Nickel Plated Thuer Conversion Colt 1860 Army Revolver

This Colt Model 1860 Army revolver was manufactured in 1868 and modified by Colt for the Thuer cartridge conversion. This revolver falls within the 172,000-180,000 serial number range for most Model 1860 Thuer conversions. This revolver has the distinctive Thuer modifications which include a bored through cylinder modified to accept the Thuer conversion ring, a barrel lug machined on the right side to accept Thuer cartridges, a loading lever plunger threaded to receive the Thuer priming punch and a hardened disk recessed into the hammer face. The Thuer conversion ring has the script "E" engraved in the eject position, a rebounding firing pin and a knurled turning knob. A small "4" assembly number is stamped on the inside of the conversion ring and on the rear face of the cylinder. The conversion ring lacks the 1868 patent markings found on most Thuer conversion rings. The hammer has the late bordered knurling on the spur. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend "-ADDRESS COL. SAML. COLT NEW YORK U.S. AMERICA-" in one line. The left side of the frame is roll stamped with the standard two line "COLTS/PATENT" markings. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene and "COLTS PATENT No.". The full serial number is stamped on the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number "634" is stamped on the wedge, cylinder arbor pin and cylinder and the assembly numbers match. The revolver has a period nickel plated barrel, loading lever, frame, hammer, trigger guard, back strap and conversion ring. The cylinder is gold plated. Mixed plated finishes on Thuer Conversion revolvers were usually done outside the Colt factory. The one-piece varnished walnut grip has a high polish piano finish. Thuer Conversion revolvers were Colt's attempt to manufacture a cartridge revolver that did not infringe on the Rollin White patent. Total production was approximately 5,000 revolvers in several models between 1869-1872.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Rare Documented Colt Factory Engraved and Cased Third Model Hartford London Dragoon Percussion Revolver

Lot 91

Colt Factory Engraved and Cased Hartford London Dragoon Revolver

Manufactured circa 1853, this is a nice example of 1 of 700 Third Model Hartford London Dragoon revolvers manufactured by Colt for sale in England between 1853 and 1857. These Dragoons were serial numbered in there own range of 1 to 700. Its believed that the basic manufacturing of these Dragoons was done in Hartford, and most were finished at the London factory. This is evident by the English style scroll engraving, engraving found only on the Hartford English Dragoons, and the varnished grips. Of the 700 Hartford London Dragoons, it is estimated that about 150 were engraved. In 1861, 73 engraved Hartford London Dragoons were shipped to Joseph C. Grubb & Company in Philadelphia, and in the same year, approximately 200 (many engraved) were returned to Harford to be used in the Civil War. The top barrel flat has the rare hand engraved marking: "COL. COLT LONDON". The revolver is engraved with delicate understated British style scrollwork and floral designs on the barrel muzzle and lug, the loading lever, frame, recoil shields, hammer, back strap and trigger guard. "COLT'S PATENT" is hand engraved in a scroll on the left side of the frame. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the standard Ranger and Indian fight scene and "COLT'S PATENT/U.S.M.R." markings. The back strap is period hand punch dot engraved "Capt. Brown" and the front strap "U.S.A." Since 200 Hartford English Dragoons were sent back to the U.S. for use in the Civil War, that would in part explain the inscription. The serial number, "129", is stamped on the loading lever, barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match. "1" is stamped above the serial number on the barrel lug, "2" is stamped below the serial number on the trigger guard, "4" below the serial number on the back strap and "5" after the serial number on the cylinder; the significance of these additional numbers is unknown. London "Crown/V" and "Crown/GP" view and proof marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel lug and above each cylinder chamber. This revolver is pictured and identified by serial number and the case on page 234 of "The Colt Engraving Book" by R.L. Wilson and on page 61 (again in the case but with a replacement grip for the original varnished walnut) of "Samuel Colt Presents" by R.L. Wilson. The revolver is complete with a British style Colt case and accessories. The oak case has a round brass plate inlaid in the middle of the lid, brass screw reinforcements and brass hook latches. The interior is lined with dark blue felt and has seven compartments. The case contains: a combination screwdriver/nipple wrench, brass straight leg double cavity bullet mold with iron sprue cutter marked "COLTS/PATENT", oil bottle stamped "S/2021," Eastman's key grease tin and medium sized bag-shaped powder flask with brown lacquer body and gold plated top and adjustable charger marked "J.BARLOW/PATENT".

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 percussion

Price Realized:

Historic Documented Civil War W. A. Thornton/D. D. Tompkins Asst. Quartermaster General Shipped Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 92

Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .36 caliber, blue finish, "wood" stocks, and factory engraving when shipped to W.A. Thornton, U.S.A., c/o Col. D.D. Tompkins, Asst. Quartermaster General, New York, on April 26, 1861. This shipment was for 10 units. This revolver is engraved in the classic style of Gustave Young, more than likely executed by one of his employees. His shop was responsible for most "factory engraved" Colts in 1854 to 1869 as Colt's main engraving contractors. The factory engraving dot marking appears near the full serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The hammer has five dots indicating around 50 hours were required for the engraving. The Germanic scroll engraving is inhabited by one of Young's distinctive animal head designs above the loading lever screw on the left and has the wolf head motif on the hammer. The barrel has a dovetailed blade front sight and "-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT.-" on top. "COLT'S/PATENT" is engraved on the left side of the frame. The cylinder has the naval battle scene. Matching partial or full serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, loading lever, wedge, and arbor pin. The grip features a relief carving of a cuirassier on the left side. Colonel Daniel D. Tompkins (1798-1863) entered West Point in 1814 at the age of 15 and graduated in 1820, was the nephew of Daniel D. Tompkins (Governor of New York and Vice President of the United States), was cited for "gallant and meritorious conduct" during the Second Seminole War, served in the Quartermaster’s Department during the Mexican War, and served as Colonel of the Quartermaster’s Department in New York from 1861 until his death in 1863. During the Civil War, Colonel William A. Thornton (1803-1866) commanded the Watervliet Arsenal, New York from May 15, 1861 to December 25, 1863. At the time Watervliet specialized in in gun cartridges and artillery carriages. Thornton ranked 12th in his West Point class of 1825 and served in the Blackhawk and Florida wars. Besides Watervliet, he also commanded Watertown and the ordnance department at Fort Columbus.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36 percussion

Lot 93

Cased New York Engraved Colt Model 1861 Navy Revolver

Manufactured in 1862 and subsequently New York engraved. The revolver features very nice broad floral scroll and punch dot engraving in the style of Master Engraver Gustave Young. The engraving covers the rear and upper sides of the barrel, frame, trigger guard bow, butt and upper and lower back strap. There are floral patterns amid the scroll designs and the characteristic wolf head hammer engraving. The top of the barrel is marked "--ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW - YORK U.S. AMERICA--" in a scallop bordered panel, and the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT". The complete matching serial number is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap and the cylinder pin is numbered "563". The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas naval scene and is restamped with a mis-matched number and the wedge is mis-matched. The barrel and cylinder were blue with casehardened loading lever, frame, hammer and silver plated brass trigger guard and back strap. The revolver is fitted with a smooth one-piece grip. Complete in a wooden case with inset brass shield on the lid, red velvet lining with a William Read & Sons dealers label affixed to the inside of the lid. The case has six compartments and comes with a partially full Eley Bros. cap tin, an unopened original 6 count container of combustible envelope cartridges made by Colt's Cartridge Works, Colt iron two cavity bullet mold, a hunting dog and game bird powder flask, and an iron "L" shaped screwdriver/nipple wrench.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36 percussion

Price Realized:

Desirable Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver with Case

Lot 94

Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver

This attractive factory engraved Model 1849 was manufactured in 1864 and features scroll engraving on the sides of the loading lever, barrel lugs, frame and hammer sides and has lighter engraving on the trigger guard and back strap. The engraving is likely by Master Engraved Gustave Young and includes an eagle head on the left side of the barrel lug. The barrel address is in a panel on the top flat and reads "ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW-YORK U S AMERICA," and "COLTS/PATENT" is in a banner on the left side of the frame. The cylinder has the standard stagecoach holdup scene. The barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap are all marked with the full serial number and "E" indicating factory designation for engraving. It also has the partial serial numbers "624" on the loading lever, "6624" on the cylinder and cylinder pin, and "66624" on the wedge. All numbers match. The revolver is fitted with smooth varnished one piece walnut grip that has "6624" handwritten in the back strap mortise at the butt. The case is inscribed "JEH" in ornate script on the lid escutcheon, and contains a Colt patent bullet mold, pocket powder flask, measure, key, several lead balls, and Eley Bros. cap tin.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 246

London Cased and Addressed Colt Model 1877 Lightning

This exceptional Model 1877 "Lightning" DA revolver was manufactured in 1886 and has "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A./DEPOT 14. PALL MALL LONDON" on the top of the barrel and "COLT D.A. 38" in an etched panel on the left. The barrel, cylinder, trigger guard, and back strap have a high polish blue finish. The frame is casehardened, and the hammer and trigger are nitre blue with the sides of the hammer polished bright. The three patent dates (1871, 1874, and 1875) are on left side of frame, and "38 CAL" is stamped on the left rear of the trigger guard. The cylinder has several British proofs and two more are stamped on the lower left side of the barrel. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and cylinder (partial). The assembly number "149" is stamped on the loading gate. It is fitted with a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt emblem. The English oak case has a screw-fastened lid with circular brass initial plate. The case is lined with red velvet and has a section fitted to the gun along with three compartments and a full nineteen round cartridge block. Included in the case are an oiler, screwdriver, and cleaning rod. The interior of the lid has a "Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Co/14 Pall Mall. S.W./London" marked label.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 long Colt

Price Realized:

Exceptional First Year Three Digit Number 564 Cased London Agency Shipped Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver in ".45 Eley Short" with Factory Letter

Lot 247

Cased London Agency Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver

The factory letter lists this early Model 1878 revolver in a shipment of 56 guns of this type in ".45 Eley Short" with blue finish and a 5 1/2 inch barrel when shipped to Colt's London Agency at 14 Pall Mall on September 26, 1878. It has been theorized that the "Short" cartridge designation was a recording error/misinterpretation based on Colt's agent Von Oppen ordering "short" revolvers. This revolver and the others we have sold that are lettered as ".45 Eley Short" have "short" 5 1/2 inch barrels rather than "long" 7 1/2 inch barrels. Note: the caliber marking on the left side of the trigger guard is "45 CAL/B" which suggest .450 Boxer ammunition which was the standard English service cartridge until 1880. It also has standard blade and groove/notch sights, " COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. DEPOT 14 PALL MALL LONDON." on top of the barrel, small London proofs on the barrel and cylinder, the matching early serial number "564" on the cylinder as well as the loading gate and butt, checkered walnut grips hand numbered to the gun, and a lanyard loop on the butt. The included oak case matches others with London Agency shipped Colt revolvers and has a London trade label inside, an L-shaped combination tool, oiler, and cartridge block.

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Eley Short

Lot 250

Nimschke Engraved Colt Cloverleaf House Model Revolver

This Colt Cloverleaf House Model Revolver was manufactured in 1871 the first year of production. The revolver has the distinctive, four-shot, "Cloverleaf" cylinder, round barrel and early high profile hammer. The revolver has a nickel plated finish and is fitted with two-piece bird's head grips. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "+ COLTS HOUSE PISTOL/HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.+" with Maltese crosses at either end of the legend. The serial number is located on the underside of the barrel. Engraved by L.D. Nimschke, the revolver is decorated with scroll engraving on a punch-dot background. The engraving covers nearly the entire revolver with the exception of the underside of the barrel and the bottom of the frame and grip strap. This revolver was once in the William Locke collection and is pictured on page 184 in "The Wm. Locke Collection" book.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Colt

Price Realized:

Excellent Colt London Agency Cased Set of Two New House Model Spur Trigger Revolvers -A) Colt New House .41 Caliber Revolver

Lot Contains 2 Items

Lot 251

Cased Set of Two New House Model Spur Trigger Revolvers

The included letter from Colt Industries lists the .38 caliber revolver in this set as shipped to Colt's London Agency on March 29, 1883, with 25 guns of the same type in blue finish. The latter is almost certainly an error given the revolver is in outstanding condition and always has been nickel plated. The .41 caliber revolver was also manufactured in 1883. Both revolvers have London proofmarks at the rear edges of the cylinders and underside of the barrels. They also have etched caliber and model markings on the left side of the barrels, the two-line Hartford address on top of the barrels, fixed half-moon blade front sights, top strap groove rear sights, caliber markings stamped below the cylinders on the left side of the frames, and checkered grips with "COLT" embossed on top. Gun A's grips have the matching serial number marked on the undersides, and gun B's grips are not numbered but fit perfectly and are almost certainly original to the gun. The revolvers come in a hardwood case fitted to the guns with red baize lining, a Colt London Agency label, oiler, cleaning rod, and key.

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Colt, 38 Colt

Price Realized:

Superb Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Ejectorless Etched Panel Double Action Sheriff's Model Revolver

Lot 253

Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Sheriff's Model Revolver

Manufactured in 1879, this is a high condition example of a desirable Sheriff's Model variation of Colt's Model 1877 Thunderer with the acid etched caliber designation. The barrel has the highly sought after "COLT D.A. 41" etched panel caliber marking on the left side and is stamped with the two-line address legend on top. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "41 CAL." Matching serial number are on the frame, cylinder ("869"), trigger guard and back strap. The screw heads, trigger, cylinder pin, cylinder pin release and hammer have a nitre blue finish, and the remaining surfaces are plated in nickel.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 LC

Price Realized:

Documented Factory "Soft" Shipped Hartley & Graham Engraved Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Ejectorless Etched Panel Double Action Sheriff's Model Revolver with Monogrammed Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 254

Documented New York Engraved Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Revolver

The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a "soft" finish which indicates the revolver was left in the white for engraving outside the factory, 3 1/2 inch barrel in .41 caliber and type of stocks not listed when shipped to Hartley & Graham of New York City on April 3, 1883. The period New York retailer engraving covers most of the surface and consists mostly of a fine floral scroll engraving on a punch dot background. The backstrap features a line and dot motif. Floral type patterns are featured on each cylinder chamber at the rear and behind the hammer. The barrel has the highly sought after "COLT D.A. 41" etched panel caliber marking on the left side and is stamped with the two-line address legend on top. Floral scrollwork replaces the Colt patent dates marking on the left side of the frame. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "41 CAL." The pearl bird head grips feature a "MSH" incised monogram accented with black enamel on the right panel at the top.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 LC

Price Realized:

Extraordinarily Rare, Documented Deluxe Tiffany & Co. Embellished Colt New Army & Navy Double Action Revolver

Lot 262

Tiffany Deluxe Colt New Army & Navy Revolver

From the late 1880s to the early 1900s self-described “American multinational luxury jewelry and specialty retailer” Tiffany & Co. advertised some of the period’s most spectacular and expensive highly embellished weaponry for America’s leading firearms manufacturers including Colt, Winchester and Smith & Wesson. “Revolvers of the most improved types, mounted in silver, carved ivory, gold, etc. with rich and elaborate decorations,” proclaimed the Tiffany Blue Book catalog, would set a customer back $50.00 to $300.00. The number of surviving Tiffany firearms remain unknown, but studies clearly show that S&W benefited the most from Tiffany’s world renowned master craftsmanship. Without a doubt Tiffany embellished Colts are much rarer than their S&W counterparts. While Tiffany did limited work for Colt starting in the 1860s, no work of this magnitude was executed until the 1890s. Additional information and examples are documented in R.L. Wilson's "Steel Canvas," The Book of Colt Firearms" and “The Book of Colt Engraving.” The largest public display of Tiffany embellished 19th century arms can be viewed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Gallery 372. The lion’s share of the display was donated and/or sold by Dr. Gerald Klaz. These highly stylized arms were often intended to be showpieces for the World's Columbian Expedition of 1893, the Exposition Universelle in Paris of 1900 and the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, NY in 1901. Colt New Army and Navy revolvers were manufactured from 1892 until 1907. The barrel is stamped “COLT D.A. 38” on the left side and has the two-line legend ending with the 1895 patent date on top. The revolver lacks a visible serial number. Matching assembly number "68" appears on the inside of the frame, crane and cylinder latch. The solid cast sterling silver Tiffany grip is constructed in one-piece, covers the rear of the frame and right recoil shield, is attached to the revolver so masterfully the only visible place where it is secured is at the frame with two silver pins, and features full coverage, highly detailed etched Indian tiger hunting scenes. The grip is signed “TIFFANY & CO./STERLING/T.” Like most major firearm manufacturers of the time, engravers were not allowed to sign their own work. Amazingly, Tiffany was allowed to mark the piece made on special order as well as those made for private customers.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Documented Factory Engraved and Inscribed First Generation Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 263

Factory Engraved 1st Gen. Colt Frontier Six Shooter SAA Revolver

Manufactured in 1909. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 5 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 caliber, nickel finish, pearl grips, and factory engraved including "Frank Moore" on the back strap when shipped to F. A. Wilder (address unknown) on May 17, 1909. The identities of F. A. Wilder and Frank Moore are not certain, but there was a Frank A. Moore (1844-1918) who was an Oregon senator and the 17th Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court, a police officer named Frank Moore in Hartford, Connecticut, and a Dr. Frank Moore who was appointed superintendent of the New Jersey State Reformatory that year and began work on March 15th. The factory engraving consists mostly of floral scrollwork and covers about 75% of the metal surfaces. Zig-zag line motifs are featured on the ejector rod housing, top strap, cylinder, trigger guard and back strap. Floral motifs decorate the recoil shield and loading gate. The back strap has the factory inscription: "FRANK MOORE." The engraving is similar to known patterns by Cuno Helfricht and his shop. The barrel is stamped with the one-line Hartford address inside a fancy banner on top and "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER 44-40" inside a scalloped banner on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates inside a banner followed by a circled Rampant Colt. The left side of the trigger guard has a Colt triangle proof and "W." Fitted with plain pearl grips.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Factory Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 264

Factory Engraved Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Letter

The factory letter lists this revolver as part of a pair in .45 caliber with a 5 1/2 inch barrel, nickel finish, and factory engraving shipped to H & D Folsom Arms in New York City on Christmas Eve 1912. The pearl grips and the gold plating on the ejector housing, cylinder, hammer, and trigger were not listed. The engraving consists of scroll engraving with punch dot backgrounds along with wavy line and line and dot patterns and covers around 25% of the metal surfaces. The pearl grips have silver Colt medallions. It also features the usual blade and groove sights, "45 COLT" marked in an engraved banner on the left side of the barrel, the one-line address on top of the barrel, the two-line address on the left side of the frame, matching serial numbers, assembly number "18" on the loading gate and back of the frame, and the "VP" proof and "1" on the left side of the trigger guard.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Wilber Glahn Factory Engraved Colt Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver

Lot 265

Wilber Glahn Factory Engraved Colt Bisley Model SAA Revolver

Manufactured originally in 1906. According to consignor notes, this revolver was returned to the Colt factory in 1931 and was rebuilt to its current configuration. Information also states that the revolver was engraved by Colt Master Engraver Wilbur Glahn. The engraving appears to be that of Glahn with scroll designs on the breech end sides of the barrel and light scroll designs on the cylinder flats, frame, trigger guard, ejector housing and back strap. The one-line address appears on the top of the barrel, and "(BISLEY MODEL)/COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .44 SPECIAL" is on the left side amid the engraving. The left side of the frame is marked with the two-line/three-patent dates followed by the Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The loading gate is marked with the assembly number "786". Blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened frame and hammer, and fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44 special

Price Realized:

Phenomenal, Important, and Near Mint, THE LAST Factory Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Relief Carved Steer Head Grip, S.D. Myres Tooled Holster Rig and Factory Letter

Lot 266

Factory Engraved Colt 1st Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Rock Island Auction Company proudly presents this historic and fresh offering: The last of a generation, the last of an icon, the last factory engraved, 1st Generation Colt Single Action Army revolver. To quote Wilson in his seminal work "The Book of Colt Firearms," "Colt factory records indicate the highest number produced (1st Gen. Colt SAA's prior to the end of production 1941) was serial number 357,869"…while also noting "some numbers were never made". He also later states "approximately 75 pre-war frames were used by the Custom Repair Department as replacements on revolvers sent for repair by customers". For decades serial number 357600, previously sold by RIAC, was thought to be the last factory engraved 1st Generation SAA until the discovery of this magnificent specimen, 357689, 89 numbers later. When considering true 1st Generation, pre-war Colt Single Actions and the last production figure quoted as number "357,869," its imperative to note the 300 pre-war/post-war models that were assembled from parts beginning in 1947. For further perspective, RIAC alone has sold SEVEN, with a higher serial number than this revolver, 357689, that were assembled after the war. In fact this, is the highest serial number pre-war Single Action we have ever sold. Considering its place in history, this revolver was shipped only 47 days prior to the infamous Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entered the war a day later on December 8th, 1941. Its no secret that war was imminent, as the U.S. began tooling up as early as 1939, the lend lease of March 1941 and less we forget the 163 Colt 1st Generation SAA's purchased by the British government in June of 1940, commonly referred to as "Battle of Britain SAA's", of which we have two in this auction. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 7 1/2 inch barrel in .38 Special, nickel finish, grip material, steer head carved grip, and factory level "C" engraving. The revolver was shipped on October 21, 1941 and delivered to Rohrer's Gun Store of New Castle, Pennsylvania. The fabulous factory "C" engraving consists of floral scrollwork on a stippled background. The engraving is the work of Colt Master Engraver Wilbur A. Glahn. Using the most liberal statistics only 2,500 1st Generation Colt SAAs of the 357,869 manufactured were factory engraved. The barrel has "COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .38 SPECIAL" stamped on the left side and the one-line Hartford address stamped on top. The left side of the frame is stamped with the two-line patent date marking followed by a Rampant Colt. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped with the number "4" and the Colt factory triangle proof. The right side of the trigger guard has a Colt factory ampersand ("&") substantiated by Wilson above. Matching serial numbers are on the frame and on the right side of both grip straps. The matching assembly number is on the loading gate and on the rear of the frame. The silver Rampant Colt medallion grips feature the highly desirable factory documented relief carved steer head on the right panel. As Colt historian and author R.L. Wilson noted, only "a few" SAAs had factory hand carved steer head motif grips. Comes with a floral tooled leather holster rig by S.D. Myres of El Paso, Texas.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 special

Price Realized:

Very Fine, Highly Desirable Antique Colt Single Action Army Flattop Target Revolver in Scarce .44 S&W Caliber with Rare Factory Elongated Walnut Target Grips and Factory Letter

Lot 267

Colt Single Action Army Flattop Target .44 S&W Revolver

Manufactured in 1898. The accompanying factory letter addressed to noted firearms dealer and expert Herb Glass, Sr. states that records for this revolver were not found but two flattop revolvers in close serial number proximity (175005 and 175006) were listed with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .44 S&W, blue finish, "extra long" checkered wood grips, and flattop frame when sold and shipped to John R. Hegeman (address unknown) on May 10, 1898 and December 23, 1898 (sic). John R. Hegeman, Jr. (1872-1923) was a noted pioneering Colt collector who had great connections within the Colt company that afforded him the opportunity to own many pre-production prototype and serial number 1 guns. As one Colt researcher put it, "He assembled the finest Colt collection known outside of the factory's own holdings." Many of his Colts ended up in some of the finest gun collections over the years. The features factory documented on serial numbers 175005 and 175006 match the features on this flattop. The accompanying letter from L.C. Jackson of Jackson Arms states the revolver is all original and was purchased by Jackson from Col. Francis W. Parker, Jr., a long time shooter and former NRA president. Jackson believed that Parker "bought the revolver new in the early days of his shooting career." The revolver has the one-line Hartford address on top and "FOR 44 S&W CTG." on the left side. Colt records indicate that 51 Colt Target Model revolvers were chambered for the .44 S&W cartridge. The seldom encountered nicely figured, oversized and diamond checkered pattern walnut factory target grips add to its rarity and desirability. Both grip panels are numbered ("5003") to the gun. The revolver has the distinctive flattop frame with dovetail mounted target rear sight and block-mounted removable nickel silver target front sight. The left side of the frame is stamped with the two-line patent dates marking followed by a circled Rampant Colt. Matching full serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, and butt. The revolver correctly has the Colt high polish commercial blue finish.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 S&W

Lot 268

Battle of Britain Colt Single Action Army Revolver

This excellent first generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver was manufactured in 1938 and is one of 163 Single Action Army revolvers that were sold to the British Purchasing Commission by Colt along with other revolvers and automatic pistols in an emergency effort by the British to replace the small arms lost during the Battle of France in May 1940. These guns were shipped to Winchester and then exported to Great Britain. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top and the model/caliber designation on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt, and the left side of the trigger guard is marked "4" above the Colt triangle proof. A British broad arrow acceptance mark is stamped on the left shoulder of the back strap. "Crown/GP" proofs are stamped on the cylinder behind each flute. The underside of the barrel has British nitro proof marks and import marking. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, both grip straps and both grip panels. This revolver is listed by serial number as one of 17 nickel plated Battle of Britain SAAs with a 5 1/2 inch barrel in .45 LC in David Brown's "The 36 caliber of the Colt Single Action Army" on page 28.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Excellent Pre-World War II Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Archive Letter

Lot 269

Colt First Generation SAA Revolver with Archive Letter

According to the included Colt Archive Department letter this revolver was manufactured on April 3, 1939 and sent to the shipping room on April 11, 1939. No information on configuration or shipment available due to record loss. Standard markings and features other than the grips.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Extraordinary Presentation Cased Pre-World War II Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Magnificent Patriotic Motif Silver Inlaid Grip

Lot 270

Presentation Cased Pre-War Colt SAA Revolver

This Colt revolver was manufactured in 1912. It was cased by craftsman Lewis Woyce and fitted with silver inlaid grips by John Boss Jr. This revolver and an identical revolver, serial no. 320916, were presented by Raymond L.J. Riling to his two sons in 1956. The companion to this revolver, number 320916, was formerly in the Robert Q. Sutherland collection. It is pictured and described on page 254 of THE BOOK OF COLT FIREARMS by R.L. Wilson. The revolver has a 5 1/2-inch barrel and is chambered for the .45 Colt cartridge. It has the high-polish Colt pre-WWI commercial blue finish with casehardened hammer and frame. The hammer and frame have vivid case colors. The barrel has the standard Colt, one-line Hartford address on the top and the caliber designation, "45 COLT" on the left side. The left side of the frame has the Colt 'two-line/three date' patent marking followed by the encircled rampant Colt motif. The Colt "V/P" proof mark is stamped on the left front of the trigger guard and a inspector's initial "W" is stamped on the rear. The serial number is located on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. All of the serial numbers match. The walnut grips are inlaid with a detailed silver eagle on both sides. The left grip is inlaid with a silver oval engraved with the monogram "JR" at the junction of the back strap and frame. The right grip has a silver, five-pointed star inlaid in the same position. The 12 inch by 7 inch mahogany case has the cover inlaid with a detailed spread eagle and shield with ribbon in an oval. The inlay is executed in contrasting wood and the shield is colored red, white and blue. The case is lined with blue velvet and divided into six compartments. One compartment has a silver overlaid wood lid and another is fitted with a silver block for twenty-five cartridges. The case contains a silver oil bottle and cleaning rod with brush and two brass tips.

Has Box

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 271

U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model Revolver

U.S. contract Single Action Cavalry Model revolver manufactured by Colt in 1875. This revolver has the scarce "J" Ordnance sub-inspector marks stamped on the underside of the barrel, the ejector rod housing, the trigger guard below the serial number, side of the cylinder and back strap behind the hammer well. Most revolvers in this serial number range are stamped with the "C" inspection mark of Ordnance Sub-Inspector A.P. Casey or the "L" mark of Ordnance Sub-Inspector Samuel B. Lewis. The Ordnance Sub-Inspector who used the "J" mark has not been identified. The revolver has the early production features and markings which include: (1) First Style ejector housing with barrel boss, (2) First Style 'Script' barrel address with slanted crosses at either end, (3) Colt 'Two-Date/Two-Line' patent markings on the frame and (4) 'bullseye' ejector rod head. Small "P" proof marks are stamped on the underside of the barrel and the side of the cylinder. The "U.S." property mark is stamped on the left side of the frame behind the patent markings. The full serial number, "17579" is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The partial serial number "7579" is stamped on the underside of the barrel beneath the ejector housing and on the side of the cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match. The assembly number "347" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. There are no visible markings on the walnut grip. This revolver is listed by serial number on page 43 of "CAVALRY AND ARTILLERY REVOLVERS" by John Kopec and Sterling Fenn as one of the 27 extant Cavalry Single Actions with "J" sub-inspection marks. Four Cavalry Single Action revolvers in this serial number range (17403, 17432, 17492, and 17586 were identified by Kopec and Fenn as being issued to the 7th Cavalry between 1876 and 1888.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 272

Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1882 for the U.S. Government, rejected, and sold commercially by Colt. The top of the barrel is marked with the one-line address. The left side of the frame is marked with the three-line/three-patent dates and the upper left front of the trigger guard is marked "45 CAL". The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap with the partial serial number "3925" marked on the bottom of the barrel under the ejector housing and on the cylinder. There is a "D.F.C." (double stamped) above the serial number on the frame, a small "G" under the ejector housing and a small "J" on the rear face of the cylinder. The loading gate is marked with the assembly number "2317". Blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened frame and hammer, and fitted with a smooth one-piece walnut grip with a small "D.F.C." stamp on the bottom, right side.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

One of the Earliest Known Ainsworth Inspected U.S. Colt Cavalry Model Revolver Serial Number 205 with John Kopec Letter

Lot 273

Low Three Digit Serial Numbered (205) Colt Cavarlry SAA Revolver

This extremely early first year production, first shipment Cavalry Model revolver was delivered to the U.S. Ordnance Department on December 31, 1873. In “Cavalry & Artillery Revolver…a Continuing Study," authors Kopec and Fenn cite serial numbers 179 and 182 as the earliest known Ainsworth inspected Cavalry Models known to exist. Based on their research, this revolver, serial number 205, is therefore the third earliest Ainsworth inspected Cavalry Model known to exist. Kopec and Fenn also cite serial number 189, but this is an A.P. Casey inspected example. The accompanying John Kopec letter identifies this revolver as “a very early example of a U.S. Cavalry issue” and notes the shortened barrel with short piece added ahead of the ejector and facsimile address, an “A” inspector initial missing from the barrel and remarked on the back strap, and a modern replacement mainspring. The current grip, which has checkering on the left side and a relief carved buffalo head on the right side, has since been added after Kopec examined the revolver in late 2003. It was also Kopec’s opinion that the revolver had been originally issued to the 6th Cavalry. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by “US.” A “P” proof is marked on the underside of the barrel. An original Ainsworth “A” inspector initial is stamped on the trigger guard. The hammer is a later replacement. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder (restamped to match), and barrel. The back strap is inscribed “Dave Rusk U.S. Marshall I.T.” and the butt is dated “1880.” David V. Rusk was a U.S. Marshall in Indian Territory under the famed Wild West era Judge Isaac Parker (1875-1896). Judge Parker went by the moniker the "Hanging Judge." During his 21 years on the bench, Judge Parker tried 13,490 cases of which 344 were capital crimes. He sentenced 160 men to death by hanging (79 actually hanged for their crimes; the remaining died in jail, appealed or were pardoned). In Michael Brodhead’s “Isaac C. Parker: Federal Justice on the Frontier,” Marshall Rusk is identified among several of his fellow deputies “who earned reputations for bravery and devoted service” in Indian Territory (page 44). In 1889, Rusk led a posse that ultimately tracked down and killed notorious Indian Territory outlaw gang leader Wesley Barnett (see Ken Butler’s “More Oklahoma Renegades,” page 25). Upon hearing the death of Wesley Barnett one period newspaper reminded its readers, “For years the Barnett boys had defied all law and ridden over the western portion of the Creek Country committing the most atrocious murders ever known in the Indian Territory.” In the aftermath of Barnett’s death, “the entire Creek nation breathes easier tonight than for some time past.”

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Henry Nettleton Inspected U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model Revolver with Factory and John Kopec Letters

Lot 274

Nettleton U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model Revolver

The accompanying factory letter lists this Cavalry Model revolver a being delivered to the U.S. Government Inspector at the Colt plant on July 17, 1878 as part of a 150 unit shipment. In his accompanying letter, Colt SAA expert and author John Kopec speculates that the revolver may have been issued to a state militia unit as it remains in Cavalry Model configuration. Henry Nettleton's inspector initials "HN" are found on the trigger guard, frame, back strap, cylinder, barrel, hammer (left side) and bottom of grip. A "P" proof is stamped on the barrel and cylinder. The revolver has an all blue finish, the three-line patent dates marking followed by "US" on the left side of the frame, the one-line Hartford barrel address, and a grip with faint Greer and Nettleton cartouches with the date "1878". Matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

New York Engraved Colt Black Powder Single Action Army Revolver with Holster

Lot 275

Antique New York Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Originally manufactured in .44 rimfire and then period converted to centerfire .44-40 W.C.F. by modifying the hammer and swapping the cylinder. The revolver features a period New York floral scroll engraving on a punch dot background accented with cross hatching, star burst, double line and fan motifs. The .44-40 chambered cylinder, cylinder pin and cylinder pin screw are replacements. The period shortened barrel has the one-line Hartford address. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking, and the left side of the trigger guard is marked "44 CAL." Matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, back strap and barrel. Comes with an unmarked open top leather holster.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Price Realized:

Documented Mexico Shipped Colt Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 276

Mexico Shipped Colt Bisley Model Revolver

Manufactured in 1900 with standard markings and features including "(BISLEY MODEL) 41 COLT." on the left of the barrel. One of only 3,159 Bisley Models chambered in .41 Colt. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration with grips not listed and shipment to Juan H. Kipp in Guadalajara, Mexico on 29 October 1900.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 277

Colt First Generation Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1902 with 7 1/2 inch barrel, standard markings and features including "(BISLEY MODEL)" on the left side of the barrel. One of 12,163 manufactured in .38 W.C.F. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. Full serial number hand scratched on the back of each grip with "C.N.C." also hand carved in the back of the left panel.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

A. P. Casey Inspected U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model Revolver

Lot 278

A. P. Casey U.S. Colt Single Action Cavalry Model Revolver

Manufactured in 1875 and subsequently refurbished by an arsenal for re-issue, most likely for the Philippine Insurrection. This is one of the Colt Single Action Cavalry Model revolvers in the serial number range from 16433-19529 that were inspected by Ordnance Sub-Inspector A. P. Casey. The A.P. Casey sub-inspector "C" mark is found on the trigger guard, back strap, and cylinder. "P" proofmarks are on the cylinder and barrel. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by "U.S." (slightly defaced). The barrel has the one-line Hartford address. Traces of a cartouche remain on the left side of the grip. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder ("9384"), and barrel ("9384").

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Documented Oklahoma Colt Bisley Model Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 279

Colt Bisley Model Frontier Six Shooter Revolver

Manufactured in 1906 with standard markings and features including "(BISLEY MODEL)/COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" on the left side of the barrel. One of 6,803 manufactured in .44-40 W.C.F. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration with grips not listed and shipped to El Reno, Oklahoma on 19 December 1906.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Price Realized:

Desirable Documented Antique Colt Bisley Frontier Six Shooter Flattop Target Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 280

Colt Bisley Frontier Six Shooter Flattop Target Revolver

The accompanying factory letter lists this Bisley as a Flattop with 7 1/2 inch barrel in .44 caliber, blue finish and type of stocks not listed when shipped to William Read & Son of Boston on January 15, 1897. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top and "(BISLEY MODEL)/COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" on the left side. The frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a circled Rampant Colt. The frame has a dovetail mounted target rear sight, and the barrel has a target front sight. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, both grip panels, trigger guard and back strap. Colt only manufactured 78 Bisley Flattop Target revolvers chambered in .44-40 WCF.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 281

Colt Bisley Model Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1904 with standard markings and features including "(BISLEY MODEL)" on the left of the barrel. One of only 8,005 manufactured in .45 caliber. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. Assembly number "3806" on the loading gate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Lot 282

Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1905 with standard markings and features. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, back strap. The cylinder is unnumbered and the loading gate marked with assembly number "2480". The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as shipment to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. of Chicago, Illinois on 27 January 1905.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 283

Colt Black Powder Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1878. The barrel is stamped with the one-line Hartford address. The ejector rod has the correct bullseye head. The caliber marking "45 CAL" is stamped on the left side of the trigger guard. The frame has the three-line, three patent dates marking on the left side. A Colt factory inspector letter "B" is stamped in the hammer well. Matching serial numbers are stamped on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder ("4315") and barrel ("4315"). The loading gate is marked with the assembly number "378". Blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finished barrel, cylinder and grip straps, casehardened frame and hammer, and fitted with a smooth one-piece walnut grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Lot 284

U.S. Colt Artillery Model Single Action Army Revolver

The DFC inspected frame dates to 1885 and has the three-line patent dates marking followed by "US" on the left side. The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was originally part of a 100 gun shipment to the U.S. government inspector at the Colt factory on January 21, 1885. The cylinder and trigger guard are numbered to the frame, the barrel is unnumbered and the back strap is numbered to a different gun. Mixed numbers are typical of Artillery variants. Includes an incorrect U.S. M1911A1 leather shoulder holster.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Lot 285

Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1892. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .38-40 caliber, blue finish and type of stocks not listed when shipped to Fletcher, Jenks & Co. of Detroit, Michigan, on September 19, 1892. The barrel has "38 WCF" on the left side and one-line Hartford address on the top. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking with a circled Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard and back strap.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Lot 286

Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1920 with standard markings and features. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. Partial matching numbers on the rear cylinder face and hand marked on the inside of each grip. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as shipment to Belknap Hardware Co. in Louisville, Kentucky on 25 May 1920.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Colt Bisley Model Single Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 287

Colt Bisley Model Single Action Army

Manufactured in 1906 with standard markings and features including "(BISLEY MODEL)"45 COLT" on the left side of the barrel. One of 8,005 manufactured in the desirable .45 Long Colt caliber. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and partial matching numbers on the inside of both grips. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration with grips not listed and shipped to St. Louis, Missouri on 23 July 1909.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

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