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Documented Colt Model 1878 Double Action 45 Long Colt Revolver with British Proofs, in Case with Int

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,000.00 USD Estimated At:6,000.00 - 11,000.00 USD
Documented Colt Model 1878 Double Action 45 Long Colt Revolver with British Proofs, in Case with Int
The top of the barrel is marked with the one line Hartford address, and the underside is stamped with the London "crown/ GP" and "crown/ V" proofs, which are repeated between the chambers of the cylinder. Grips are checkered walnut with inverted "V" designs at the bottoms and a lanyard swivel on the bird's head butt. In a red felt lined hardwood case, with a brass shield escutcheon on the lid, paper label reading "JOHN BLISSETT./ Gun, Rifle & Pistol Maker/ No. 322, HIGH HOLBORN/ LONDON", cleaning brush, and a hardwood cartridge block with twenty 450 Eley cartridges, assorted makers. According to the included Colt factory letter, this revolver was one of three sent to Colt's London Agency on November 21, 1878. Don Wilkerson's Book, "Colt's Double Action Revolver, Model of 1878" discusses this particular shipment. In particular, a set of six extra guns added to one of the crates, 45 Colt, 3 in nickel and 3 in blue, which were converted to 450 Eley at the London agency. Quote Wilkerson, page 35 "It was solutions like this that tend to drive collectors crazy today. As a result of sending six American chambered revolvers to London, we end up with six revolvers that are now in 450 Eley with Hartford/ London marked barrels that will letter 45 Colt.". Adding to the confusion, the revolver appears to have been reunited with the original matching numbered 45 LC cylinder. The letter does indeed say ".45/C", and verifies everything but the "Not Listed" grips and finish.
BBL: 5-1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 471
Condition: Very fine. 85% of the bright original high polish blue finish remaining, with a brown patina forming on the grip straps, barrel and cylinder, along with some light spotting and handling marks. Vivid niter blue is visible on the hammer and trigger. Grips are fine, with minor pressure dents and varnish loss. Case is fine, showing only light handling marks. Mechanically very good.