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*Colt Single Action Army .38 WCF SN: 386816

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,250.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 5,000.00 USD
*Colt Single Action Army .38 WCF SN: 386816
'First Generation' Well documented single action revolver chambered in .38-40 Winchester, that belonged to Nevada lawman 'Big John' Silveira. John Silveira was Born in San Bernardino in 1892, enlisted in the Army during World War I, worked for the Miller & Lux Cattle Co. through college, mined gold in Seachlight, N.V. and in 1936 became sheriff of Searchlight(he stayed sheriff until his retirement in 1963). Big John was recognizes as one of the best pistol shots in Nevada and in 1939 & 1940 was the Pistol Shot Champion. Mr. Silveira was also known as the "law of three states" as he was frequently the only officer available for the desert domain in the Colorado River area where Nevada, Arizona and California meet. The revolver is accompanied by a factory letter, an unmarked smooth black leather belt loop holster, a gold plated badge stamped "12/DEPUTY SHERIFF/CLARK. CO./NEVADA" with markers mark from George Schenick of Los Angeles, photos of Big John, and articles concerning his life & death. Also included are an audio & video taped recollections of Big John and the early days of searchlight, and correspondence between William Hasse and people who knew Big John. John Hasse was a western historian and historical arms collector, he obtained this pistol and documentation from friends and descendents of Big John Silveira. Pistol features a 4 3/4" barrel, dovetailed blade front sight(which John used for better accuracy), 'v' notched rear sight, ejector rod, fluted six-shot cylinder, smooth trigger, knurled hammer spur and two-piece checkered black hard rubber grips with Rampant Colt decor & faux jewels mounted on both of the grip panels. Serial numbers match on the frame, backstrap and trigger guard. Revolver retains bluing in the cylinder fluted and in some other protected areas while the majority of the metal surfaces have turned turned to a lovely aged brown patina. Action is strong with four clicks & tight lock up, bore shows some pin prick pitting, markings are very good and the hard rubbers grips are very good. Condition is NRA good to very good. ***C&R Firearm***