This is an example of an engraved blackpowder Colt Single Action Army revolver that actually is more important due to the fact it was owned by a cowboy movie star, Dan White. The Colt factory letter states that this revolver was shipped "soft" from Colt to Hartley and Graham in New York on November 28, 1885. The notation "Soft" indicates that the revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside the Colt factory. The revolver is decorated with a Germanic scroll engraving. The engraving covers two-thirds of the revolver and corresponds to Colt B engraving. The revolver has a nickel-plated finish. The hammer is polished bright with a blued spur. The revolver is fitted with two-piece stag-horn grips. Documents with the revolver state that it was owned by Cowboy Movie Star Dan White and actor Tex Cooper and was used in many movies between 1930 and 1950. The documents state that the revolver was restored by master gunsmith Thomas Hass in the 1970s. The revolver has a replacement barrel roll-stamped: "COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45" in an engraved banner on the left side and "COLT'S MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." on the right side just above the ejector housing. The Colt "three-date/three-line" patent markings are roll-stamped on the left side of the frame and partially covered with engraving. The serial number "116616" is located on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Very fine as refurbished. The revolver barrel has been replaced and engraved to match balance of revolver; the style is identical to the original engraving and very difficult to detect. The revolver has been replated and the hammer refinished. The frame screws are replacements. The stag-horn grips are replacements. The frame and cylinder show moderate to heavy pitting on the engraved surfaces under the nickel-plating. The non-engraved portions of the revolver have been carefully polished. This is a good-looking, 19th century engraved Colt Single Action Army revolver with interesting cinematic history!