There are few firearms that exude the character, grit, and style of the American frontier like the Colt Single Action Army revolver. The revolver found itself almost immediately popular as a sidearm upon its release in the mid-late 1800s, and that popularity continued well into the 20th century among those with a desire for unwaveringly reliable firepower. 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). As a "working gun of the frontier" high condition early production examples of the legendary Peacemaker in .45 Long Colt are a rarity on the collector's market and are therefore highly sought after by collectors. This stunning example will certainly make a grand statement to any Colt SAA or Western collection. The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped to H&D Folsom Arms Co. of New York City on April 12, 1880 with .45 caliber chambering and blue finish. The barrel length and type of stocks are not listed, a common indication of standard 7 1/2 inch barrel and walnut stocks. Fifty guns were in the shipment. 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.

Exceptionally fine. The barrel and ejector rod housing retain 85% bright original high polish blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The cylinder retains 85% bright original high polish blue finish with high edge wear and a drag line. The grip straps retain 50% plus original blue finish with smooth gray patina on the balance. The hammer and frame retain 95% vivid original case colors. The grip is excellent showing some minor handling marks and retaining nearly all of the original varnish. Mechanically excellent. A very attractive, high condition antique Colt SAA revolver worthy of the finest collection.