Very Rare Colt Bisley Model revolver with factory engraving, silver-plated finish and pearl grips. On page 266-7 of "THE BOOK OF COLT FIREARMS" author R.L Wilson notes: "Engraved Bisley revolvers are very rare, and Colt factory records indicate that less than 60 were made". Wilson further notes that Bisley revolvers with silver-plated finishes are extremely rare and that silver plating was almost exclusively restricted to engraved guns. Pearl grips are also rare on Bisley Model revolvers. This revolver is complete with two Colt factory letters dated 1969 and 1984. The letters list the revolver features as: "Barrel Length: 4 3/4:, Finish: Silver, Type of Stocks: Pearl" and "Factory Engraved: Yes". The letters state that this revolver was shipped to A. Baldwin and Co., New Orleans, Louisiana, for Jim Brown on October 28, 1901. The revolver is decorated with Colt "B" scroll and punch-dot engraving that is nearly identical to the work on Bisley model serial number 266985 illustrated on page 450 of "THE COLT ENGRAVING BOOK VOLUME ONE" by R.L. Wilson. The engraving was almost certainly executed by Colt chief engraver Cuno A. Helfricht. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO./HARTFORD, CT.U.S.A." in a engraved panel with double-line borders. "(BISLEY MODEL) 38 W.C.F." is roll-stamped in an oval panel on the left side of the barrel. The Colt 'Three-Date/Two-Line' patent markings and rampant Colt trademark enclosed in a double circle are roll-stamped on the left side of the frame in a scroll-work panel. The assembly number "98" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The serial number, "216881" is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Very good The revolver is all original and retains traces of the delicate silver-plated finish in protected areas. The balance of the revolver has a silver-gray patina. The engraving and markings are crisp. There is light surface pitting on the side of the ejector housing, barrel near the muzzle, cylinder and the forward edge of the frame. The pearl grips remain in fine condition; the grips have yellowed slightly from age; wear is limited to several very minor chips and a barely noticeable hairline crack forward of grip screw on left panel. The action is tight and functions well. This is a solid original example of an extremely rare and fully documented factory engraved, silver-plated Colt Bisley Model Revolver with pearl grips. Writer can only recall of one other decent example we have ever offered at auction!