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 an early example of the legendary Peacemaker in .45 LC. In the words of Colt author and expert David Brown, "The 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," p. 70). The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped to Simmons Hardware Co. of St. Louis, Missouri, on September 10, 1886, with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .45 caliber, desirable nickel finish, and pearl stocks. This was a five gun shipment. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "45 CAL." Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Fine, retaining 60% original nickel plating with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The grips are very fine with slight chipping along the inside edges, a few typical age lines, and filled tiny chips at the heels. Mechanically excellent. A solid original black powder Colt SAA with desirable factory nickel finish and pearl stocks.