1599

Scarce 7 1/2 Inch Barrel .476 Caliber Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 4,500.00 USD
Scarce 7 1/2 Inch Barrel .476 Caliber Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter
This is a fine example of a Colt Model 1878 D.A. .476 revolver with Colt factory letter that states that the revolver was shipped to Colt's London Agency on August 27, 1885. The letter lists the caliber as ".476/c", the barrel as "7 1/2" and the finish as "blue". Only 355 Colt Model 1878 revolvers chambered for the .476 Enfield cartridge were manufactured with 7 1/2-inch barrels and blue finishes. Surviving examples are scarce. The revolver has the Colt high polish blue finish with niter blue trigger and hammer top. The revolver has two-piece, black, hard rubber, 'bird's head' grips. The grips are checkered and embossed with the Rampant Colt trademark. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "COLT'S PT.F.A.MFG.CO.HARTFORD CT.U.S.A.DEPOT 14. PALL MALL LONDON" in one line. The bottom of the barrel is stamped with British "Crown/CP" and "Crown/V" proof and inspection marks. "476 CAL" is stamped in small letters on the left front trigger guard bow. The full serial number, "15/911" is stamped in two lines on the butt in front of the casehardened lanyard loop. The cylinder is not serial numbered and has "Crown/CP" and "Crown/V" marks stamped behind each cylinder flute. The loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "57".
BBL: 7 1/2 inch
Stock:
Gauge: 476
Finish: blue
Grips: black hard rubber
Serial Number: 15911


Fine. The revolver retains approximately 40% of the original blue finish. The balance of the revolver has a blue-brown age patina. The revolver has no pitting but shows scattered handling marks. The grips are in very good condition with scattered handling wear. The markings are crisp. The action is fine. This is a very good example of a scarce .476 caliber Colt Model 1878 D.A. revolver with 7 1/2-inch barrel and London address.