Originally designated the North West Mounted Police and earning the Royal designation for participation in the 2nd Boer War, the RNWMP was one of the precursors to the modern RCMP, responsible for law enforcement across large stretches of Western Canada during the westward expansion and the Klondike Gold Rush. This example bears the typical Mounted Police markings, having "RNWMP" stamped on the back strap and "MP" on the butt. New Service revolvers are known to have been issued to the Mounted Police chambered in both .455 Eley and .45 Long Colt, with this example being the latter. The top of the barrel has the standard two-line address and patent dates and caliber marking on the left. The left of the frame has the Rampant Colt and the left of the trigger guard is marked "VP" and "3". It is fitted with blade and frame notch rear sights and a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with "COLT" in ovals at the tops. Includes a "Sam Brown" style leather belt with matching cartridge pouch and holster. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed) as well as shipment to the Commissioner of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police in Canada on 31 October 1919. Also included is a copy of "Colt and Its Collectors". Provenance: The Mel Raucher Collection

Very fine, retains 85% of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina, most noticeably on the grip straps and at the muzzle. The grips are also very fine with some scattered minor blemishes in the otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The holster rig is very fine with some scattered mild wear.