A scarce pre-war/post war Single Action Army revolver chambered in .38 Special, which had its serial number factory applied in 1940 and was assembled and sold after the end of World War II. The pre-war/post-war SAAs are found in the 356,000 and 357,000 serial number range. Based on research by author Don Wilkerson presented on page 28 in "Colt's Single Action Army Revolver Pre-War Post-War Model", a total of only 163 pre-war/post-war revolvers were built in this configuration, with the majority being assembled between 1947 and 1948 in small batches produced two to three days a week only for a few months out of the year. At the time, the revolvers were assembled either directly by or under the supervision of master gunsmith Harry St. John, with those assembled or inspected by him marked with a "F" on the left rear triggerguard bow as is the case with this example. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as chambered for .38 Special with 5 1/2 inch barrel, blue finish, and rubber stocks when shipped to Del Shorb of West Hartford, Connecticut, on October 18, 1965. Delburt "Del" E. Shorb was a Navy veteran of the Korean War, who subsequently worked for Colt and Smith & Wesson over a 28 year career before retiring as vice president of international sales of the latter. Standard marking and features, with assembly number "484" on the loading gate and rear of the frame. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, both grip straps, and the inside of both grip panels. Includes original Colt box with matching test target and factory packing list invoiced to D. E. Shorb.

Excellent plus overall, retaining 99% of original blue and 98% plus original vivid casehardened finishes, with light handling evidence and some fading on the front of the frame and loading gate. The box is fine with scattered tears, scuffs on exterior, and end label complete. Mechanically excellent.