The Colt Single Action Army was one of the most popular handguns in late 19th century and is easily the most iconic and most thoroughly associated with the American West. Offered here is a fine, early example of the legendary Peacemaker in .45 LC. In the words of Colt author and expert David Brown, "[T]he Colt Single Action Army .45 was 'the soldier's friend' throughout the remaining years of the Indian Wars in the West. Adopted also with equal enthusiasm by civilians, it was the pet and the 'good right arm' of lawman and outlaw alike on every American frontier of its era" ("The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," page 70). The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped on July 3, 1882, to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett Co. of Chicago, Illinois, with 7 1/2 inch barrel in .45 caliber, blue finish, and hard rubber grips. The shipment was for five guns. Chicago was a major railway hub at the time and was often the first stop for firearms and other goods heading farther west. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The left side of the trigger guard is marked "45 CAL." Matching full or partial serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel.

Very good, retaining 30% original blue finish and traces of original case colors in and around the sheltered areas with a smooth brown-gray patina on the balance, often seen on frontier carried sidearms. The worn replacement grips are very good, showing years of handling as a trusted sidearm. Mechanically fine.