Manufactured in 1882, these "Cop & Thug" gripped New Police revolvers are admittedly among the most attractive antique Colts and are very scarce. Less than 4,000 are believed to have been manufactured between 1882 and 1886. This example has a non-standard 4 1/4 inch barrel. Standard barrel lengths were 2 1/4, 4 1/2, 5, and 6 inches. The left side of the barrel carries the desirable acid etched panel marked "NEW POLICE 38." Top of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address, and the left side of the frame is marked "38CAL." London proofs appear on the underside of the barrel and at the rear of the cylinder flutes. The grips have "COLT" at the top and a police officer restraining a thug's knife armed hand while pointing a Colt revolver at his chest at the bottom. Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The acid etched panel is excellent. The grips are excellent with overall crisp checkering and "Cop & Thug" motif. Mechanically functions but cylinder does not lock properly.