Manufactured in 1982. The matching consecutive set numbered directly before this which we sold in September 2012 was factory documented as specifically manufactured for Stan Newman, manager of Colt's Parts Department. Like that set, these revolvers were engraved by factory master engravers Dennis Kies (gold/A) and George Spring (silver/B). The revolver is signed "KIES COLT ENGRVR" on the right side of the butt. They both have "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in a panel on the left side of the barrels, the one-line address in script, black powder style frames with the three-line patent marking, heat blue small parts, the 150th anniversary design on the top of the back strap, "COLT ENGRAVING SAMPLER" in script down the back strap, and all matching numbers. The left grip is inscribed "R. Henshaw 1831/L. Nimschke 1850-1900/C. Helfricht 1871-1921/Contemporary" in script with "D. Kies" following the "Contemporary". They come in a hardwood display case with a hand engraved silver plaque inscribed "Colt/Engraving/Sampler" and blue velveteen lining on the French fitted interior. Each revolver also includes a matching box.

Excellent overall with 98% plus original gold and heat blue finish, some light scratches and handling marks, minor fading of the enamel on the grips, and a chip on the underside of the left grip panel. Mechanically excellent. The case and box are very good with mild storage wear.

As described in "A". Signed "SPRING" along the left side of the butt. The left side of the barrel is marked "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" in an etched panel. The left grip is inscribed "R. Henshaw 1831/L. Nimschke 1850-1900/C. Helfricht 1871-1921/Contemporary" in script with "G. Spring" following "Contemporary". Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection

Excellent overall with 98% plus original silver plated and heat blue finish, moderate tarnishing of the silver, a few scratches, light handling marks, and some minor cracking on the underside of the grips. Mechanically excellent. The box is very good with minor storage wear. This is a very attractive Colt Engraving Sampler set engraved by two of the finest Colt master engravers of our time: Dennis Kies and George Spring.