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Identified Inscribed Cased London Shipped Colt Single Action Army Revolver in 45 Eley Short Caliber

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:2,750.00 USD Estimated At:5,500.00 - 7,500.00 USD
Identified Inscribed Cased London Shipped Colt Single Action Army Revolver in 45 Eley Short Caliber
Manufactured in 1877, the accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, .45 Eley Short caliber, blue finish with the barrel length and stocks "Not Listed" and that it was shipped to the Colt London Agency, London, England on August 16, 1877 as 1 of 103. Only 1,150 revolver were made in this caliber. The top of the barrel is marked "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT U.S.A.", the left side of the frame is marked with the two line/two patent dates and the left shoulder of the trigger guard is marked " 45 CAL. / B". The underside of the barrel and the cylinder between each chamber are marked with British "crown / GP" and "crown / V" proofmarks. The revolver has a casehardened finish on the frame and hammer, the remaining parts are blue. The matching serial number is marked on the frame, trigger guard and backstrap. Standard blade front and frame notch rear sights, round or "bulls-eye" shaped ejector rod head and fitted with one piece smooth varnished walnut grip. The revolver is complete in a English wooden case with the brass disk on the lid engraved "C.I. BAINES / 61ST REGT.", has the Colt's London label affixed to the inside of the lid, replacement green felt lining, 24 round bullet block, James Dixon marked oiler, "L" shaped screwdriver and cleaning rod. Cuthbert Baines was a Lt. in August of 1877, Captain in October of 1884 and a Major when he retired in May of 1897. He died in August of 1939. The 61st Regiment was attached to the 2nd Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment. There are also copies of research papers done on a C.J. Baines (aforementioned information), consignors notes say C.L. Baines, however the disk clearly is marked "C.I. Baines". Writer isn't sure if the information provided is for the correct individual or not, due to the confusion over the script writing.
BBL: 5 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Eley Short
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 25410


Very fine. The revolver retains approximately 70% plus original high polish bright blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The frame retains approximately 60% plus of the vivid original case colors, while the hammer retains approximately 90% vivid case colors. The grip is excellent with 90% original varnish, some lower edge wear and a few scattered minor dings and dents. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. The case is very fine with a cigarette burn on the lid, several minor scratches. The excellent original inside lid label is mostly intact with some wear and flaking where it comes in contact with the cylinder and oiler lid. The lining shows mild to moderate wear. The accessories are all fine.