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Colt "Storekeeper" Model 1877 Thunderer Etched Panel Revolver with Factory Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,400.00 - 2,250.00 USD
Colt  Storekeeper  Model 1877 Thunderer Etched Panel Revolver with Factory Letter
According to the included factory letter, this revolver was one of 25 shipped to Simmons Hardware Co., St. Louis, Mo. on April 27, 1880. All features are confirmed save the finish, which is listed as "blue", though due to the factory quality nickel finish on this arm, we believe this part of the letter is in fact a bookkeeping or typographical error. Fixed sights, with the correct short 2-line barrel address "COLT'S PT. F.A.MFG CO / HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." on top and "COLT D.A. 41" in an etched panel on the left side. A small "B" is stamped on the bottom of the barrel. The left side of the frame has the Colt three-line/three date patent markings and the left trigger guard shoulder is marked "41 CAL". The complete matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap and the partial number "209" is marked on the rear face of the cylinder. Fitted with checkered black hard rubber bird's head grips with the Rampant Colt trademark in an oval at the top.
BBL: 2-1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 41 Long Colt
Finish: nickel
Grips: hard rubber
Serial Number: 24209
Condition: Very fine, retaining 80% of the nickel finish with flaking and wear on the cylinder and a small amount of flaking on the left rear of the barrel. There are a few minor gouges and scratches on the top strap. The lower portion of the backstrap has a smooth gray patina. There are a few small areas of minor pitting on the cylinder as well as a few dings and scratches. Almost all of the original bright niter blue remains on the back of the trigger and hammer with some discoloration on the hammer sides. The grips are very good having faded to brown with some high edge wear, a few minor dings and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.