The Colt Single Action Army was one of the most popular handguns in late 19th century and is easily the most iconic and most thoroughly associated with the American West. Offered here is a fine, early example of the legendary Peacemaker in .45 LC. In the words of Colt author and expert David Brown, "[T]he Colt Single Action Army .45 was 'the soldier's friend' throughout the remaining years of the Indian Wars in the West. Adopted also with equal enthusiasm by civilians, it was the pet and the 'good right arm' of lawman and outlaw alike on every American frontier of its era" ("The 36 Calibers of the Colt Single Action Army," page 70). The accompanying factory letter confirms the .45 caliber chambering and blue finish. The barrel length and type of stocks are not listed, a common indication of standard 7 1/2 inch barrel and walnut stocks, which this revolver exhibits. The letter also states the revolver was shipped to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham of New York City on October 7, 1876. This shipment was for 50 guns. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top. The frame has the two-line patent date marking on the left side. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "45 CAL." Matching full or partial serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and barrel. The revolver was pictured and identified in the June 1975 issues of "Arms gazette" on page 13 and "The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver 1873-1895" on page 56 where the 50 gun shipment containing this revolver is cited as being "pre-packed in a shipping carton in March, but not shipped until seven months later." Includes a receipt for this revolver when it was purchased by Richard Atkinson from Tommy Rholes in May 1988. Provenance: The Ronald Ogan Collection, The Tommy Rholes Collection; The Richard Atkinson Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very fine. The barrel and ejector rod housing retains 70% bright original blue finish, the cylinder retains 30% original blue, and the grip straps retain 60% original blue with thinning to brown on the balance. 40% original case colors remain on the frame. 80% original case colors remain on the hammer. The grip is excellent with some scattered minor handling marks and most of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent.