3260

Rare Colt Single Action Army Revolver in Caliber .44 S&W Caliber with Factory Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,500.00 USD Estimated At:7,000.00 - 9,000.00 USD
Rare Colt Single Action Army Revolver in Caliber .44 S&W Caliber with Factory Letter
This is a fine example of a Colt Single Action Army revolver that was factory chambered in the rare 44 S&W caliber as manufactured in 1921. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, barrel length, blue finish, wood grips, that it was sold to Harris Flippen & Company, and shipped to Watkins-Cottrell Company, Richmond, Virginia, order number 6181/2 on July 13, 1922. Colt Single Action Army revolvers chambered for the .44 S& W Special Cartridge are scarce. The "Table of Production Totals by Caliber" on page 252 of "THE BOOK OF COLT FIREARMS" by R.L. Wilson shows a total of 506 Single Action revolvers chambered for the .44 S&W Special cartridge. The revolver has the Colt high polish pre-war blue finish on the barrel, cylinder, trigger guard and backstrap. The frame, hammer, trigger and loading gate have a casehardened finish. The revolver has two-piece smooth walnut grips. The top of the barrel is marked "COLT'S P.T. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." in a single line. The left side of the barrel is marked with the caliber designation "RUSSIAN AND / S.&W. SPECIAL 44". The left side of the frame is marked with the Colt two line, three patent dates followed by the Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame and on the left side of the front and back straps under the grip. The upper inside of the grip panels are ink stamped "2797" over an unrecognizable marking. The inside of the loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "942". The left front trigger guard bow is stamped with the Colt "triangle/VP" proofmark.
BBL: 71/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 44 S&W special
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 342797
Condition: Very fine. The revolver retains 75% original blue finish with some smooth grayish brown patina on the barrel, thinning on the grip straps, high edge wear and scratches on the cylinder and overall a few minor dings. The hammer retains 60% original case colors and the frame retains 50% original case colors, brightest in protected areas, mixed with smooth gray patina. The front sight blade has been altered by cutting down the rear portion. The grips are very good with some minor wear on the lower edges and scattered minor dings and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.