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  • Auction Catalog #4090
  • Lot #1189
Lot #1188
Lot #1190

Lot 1189: William McGraw Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army

Rare Documented William McGraw Exhibition Quality Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Double Steerhead Carved Pearl Grips Formerly of The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection

Auction Location: Bedford, TX

Auction Date: December 9, 2023

Lot 1189: William McGraw Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army

Rare Documented William McGraw Exhibition Quality Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Double Steerhead Carved Pearl Grips Formerly of The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection

Auction Location: Bedford, TX

Auction Date: December 9, 2023

Estimated Price: $16,000 - $25,000
Price Realized:
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Rare Documented William McGraw Exhibition Quality Engraved Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Double Steerhead Carved Pearl Grips Formerly of The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection

Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action Army
Type: Revolver
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Barrel: 5 1/2 inch round
Finish: blue/casehardened/gold
Grip: pearl
Stock:
Item Views: 1094
Item Interest: Very Active
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 156
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Description:

Manufactured in 1937. The included R.L. Wilson letter compares the engraving of this gun to that of Serial Number 357005, owned by former Colt Vice President of Manufacturing Philip W. Schwartz photographed on page 257 of "The Book of Colt Firearms" attributing it to the work of Ithaca engraver William McGraw. This example is inlaid with two gold bands at the muzzle ahead of the serrated front sight, and engraved with rare oak leaf designs on the barrel which flank the markings, frame, triggerguard, and backstrap with the cylinder displaying a more traditional leafy scroll and border motif. The letter points out that the gold plating on the engraved screws, ejector, cylinder pin, cylinder pin latch, and trigger are a rarity among Single Action Army revolvers. The gold on the aforementioned parts, as well as the inlays, create a magnificent and striking contrast to the blue and casehardened finish. Wilson states in his letter that it is clear that the revolver was shipped from the factory to McGraw and then finished upon its return. To add to the striking appearance and artistry of this revolver is a set of steerhead carved pearl grips in which the motif is mirrored on both panels. The letter further states that the shipping info and configuration at the time of shipping for this era of Colt is absent, but the production book has the revolver as sent to the shipping room on August 4, 1937. Provenance: The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Rating Definition:

Excellent, retaining 99% plus original blue finish and case colors with limited handling marks and crisp engraving. The small parts retain 95% original gold plating with some small spots of flaking. The desirable double steerhead carved pearl grips are also excellent as well with crisp carving and exceptionally vibrant colors. Mechanically excellent. This Single Action Army represents an extreme rarity absent from most all Colt collections. Don't squander your opportunity!



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