This is an amazing factory documented masterpiece by Colt Master Engraver Howard Dove. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 4 3/4 inch barrel in .38 Special, one-piece walnut grip, type "C" scroll engraving, 24k gold inlays, embellished by Colt Master Engraver Howard Dove, and French fitted cherry case when shipped on February 5, 1983 to Sahara Mid-Winter Antique Arms Show, Las Vegas, Nevada, for display and auction. The letter also states the revolver was especially engraved to be auctioned at the Las Vegas show and at the time was the only New Frontier with 4 3/4 inch barrel .38 Special manufactured by Colt. Exquisite type "C" engraving envelops the majority of the metal surfaces and is wonderfully accented by 24k gold inlays. Gold inlaid bands are featured on the barrel at the muzzle and breech and on the rear of the ejector assembly. Richly detailed scrollwork on a punch dot background wraps around the one-line barrel address and model/caliber marking on barrel and continues on the vivid casehardened frame. The frame is bordered by thin gold inlay with leaf clusters at ends. The left recoil shield is inlaid with a beautifully detailed gold charging American buffalo. The loading gate is inlaid with a Sioux medicine man headdress. The cylinder is engraved between the flutes as well as featuring an engraved band at the rear. Two gold bands are on either side of the engraved band and another gold band outlines the front of the cylinder and the flutes. A gold engraved profile of a Native American is inlaid on the back strap with engraved scrollwork and gold inlay below. The butt is engraved with a gold inlay border, and an arrow flying through the air is inlaid in gold on the trigger guard. The grips are one-piece beautifully dark finished walnut. It is displayed is a cherry Colt presentation case French fitted in burgundy velvet.

Near new in case showing only the slightest handling evidence. The case is excellent with minimal handling/storage marks. Serial number 0001NF is a masterpiece by renowned Master Engraver Howard Dove that will be a welcomed addition to any Colt SAA collection! A must have for collectors looking for works of art by the great late 20th century firearms artisans!