Manufactured in 1873, this very early production Colt SAA revolver, serial number 74, has the rare and extremely desirable "pinched frame" rear sight found only on civilian Single Action Army revolvers below serial number 200 and government test model revolvers. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver in .45 caliber, blue finish and barrel length and type of stocks not listed (usually referencing 7 1/2 inches and walnut, respectively) when it was shipped to Spies Kissam & Co. of New York City on June 2, 1874, as part of a 10 gun shipment. The top of the period shortened barrel has the correct italic one-line Hartford address. Serial number "74" is stamped on the bottom ahead of the cylinder pin. The left side of the frame has the two-line, two patent dates marking, and the left side of the trigger guard is marked "45 CAL." The ejector rod has the early "bullseye" head. There is correctly no assembly number on the loading gate. There is no visible serial number on the cylinder. The replacement trigger guard is stamped with the number "174." The matching "74" serial number is found on the barrel, frame and back strap. The revolver has a full nickel plated finish.

Fair. The revolver has a mottled gray patina with traces of the period retailer nickel finish in the protected areas. There is a shallow cut visible on the left front of the frame in line with the cylinder pin. The shrunken grips are good with a minor chip missing near the bottom and age cracking overall. Mechanically fine. A highly desirable and rare "pinched frame" Colt SAA that is missing from most collections even with the period modifications. You will look a very long time just to see one these, let alone own one!