The Colt SAA 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. This documented factory engraved example was manufactured in 1902, and certainly shows a certain flair that is often associated with early 20th century Eastern wealth. The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped to E.K. Tryon, Jr. & Co. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 28, 1902 as part of a two gun shipment. The letter verifies the 4 3/4 inch barrel in .38-40 caliber, nickel plating with gold cylinder, and factory engraving with type of stocks not listed. The decorative work on the revolver bears profuse foliate scroll pattern with punch dot background, heart motif on the loading gate and behind the hammer, entwining lines, zig zag lines, and cross hatching. Writer believes the aforementioned embellishment was executed by Cuno Helfricht. The embellishment displays the characteristics of patterns associated with Colt Master Engraver Cuno Helfricht and his shop. Helfricht spent his nearly 50 year career exclusively with the Colt firm (1871-1921). During his tenure with Colt, Helfricht saw the transition from percussion to cartridge firearms and a rapidly growing market for engraved firearms. At the height of the firearm engraving fad, Helfricht oversaw a shop of six engravers. By the turn of the century, experts believe that Helfricht did most of the work himself with the help from one to two assistants. Helfricht's successor's included famed Colt engravers Wilbur Glahn and William Gough. The revolver wears a set of period pearl grips with the right panel featuring a relief carved ox head. The barrel has the standard two-line Hartford address on top and "38 W.C.F." in a banner on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The matching partial serial number "115" appears on the rear of the cylinder.

Very good, displaying the appearance of a well traveled sidearm proving that not all art hangs on the wall with strong traces of original nickel plating in the protected areas. The engraving is crisp overall. The grips are fine with crisp carving. Mechanically fine. A factory engraved Colt SAA with authentic character.