Offered here is the finest Model 1871-72 we have had the pleasure of cataloging. Highly prized by collectors for its limited production and significance as the first Colt revolver manufactured specifically for a metallic cartridge, the Model 1871-72 Open Top Revolver is the transition model between the Colt cartridge conversions and solid frame Single Action Army revolver. The production of the Open Top was made possible after the American government refused Rollin White’s request to extend his breech loading revolver patent in 1870. White’s patent was a drastic leap in the progression of firearms development as it allowed for a bored through revolver cylinder to be loaded with cartridges at the rear. Smith & Wesson held exclusive rights to the use of White’s patent, and for every S&W manufactured revolver that used his bored through cylinder patent, White received a 25 cent royalty. White was responsible for defending his patent in court against other manufacturers who infringed upon his breech loading design, and his success in the courts paved the way for S&W to manufacture the first commercially successful revolver to use rimfire cartridges, the Model 1, with near impunity from competitors. S&W followed up the Model 1 with a series of tip-up revolvers that dominated the rimfire market. The expiration of White’s patent signaled the end to S&W’s unyielding domination over the rimfire revolver market. Colt’s response was the Model 1871-72 revolver of which 7,000 were manufactured in 1872 and 1873 at a time when settlers pouring into the American West demanded powerful large caliber sidearms. Their heavy use on the Western frontier and limited production run has made the Model 1871-72 one of the most difficult Colt revolvers to find in any condition. High condition Model 1871-72s, like this example, are nearly unheard of, let alone encountered for public sale. The barrel has the distinctive blade and integral notch sights and "- ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW - YORK U.S. AMERICA-" stamped on top. The left side of the frame is stamped "COLTS/PATENT," a marking observed only on about the first 1,000 pistols of this model manufactured by Colt. The cylinder is roll engraved with the naval engagement scene. The back strap is blued iron, and the trigger guard is silver plated brass. While iron and brass mountings were both used, iron is more frequently encountered. Matching full serial numbers are on the frame, barrel, trigger guard and back strap. The matching partial serial number "095" is on the cylinder. Fitted with a nicely figured and varnished walnut grip. This exceptional Colt was formerly in the famed William M. Locke collection (see "Colts from the William M. Locke Collection" page 143 and "The William M. Locke Collection" on page 172).

Exceptionally fine. The barrel and ejector rod housing retain 85% plus bright original high polished blue finish, the cylinder retains 75% original high polished blue finish and the back strap retains 70% original high polished blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. There is a patch of light pitting at the muzzle. All of the cylinder scene remains. 90% plus vivid original case colors remain on the hammer and frame. Traces of aged darkened original silver remain on the trigger guard, otherwise the exposed brass has a very attractive appearance. The grip is also excellent with a few minor handing marks and most of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent. Simply the finest Colt Model 1871-72 Open Top Revolver we have cataloged. This museum quality example will be a welcomed addition to even the most advanced public or private collections.