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LOT 179
Outstanding Alvin White Signed, Master Exhibition Engraved, and Gold Inlaid Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Pearl Grips - Serial no. 316631, 32-40 WCF cal., 5 1/2 inch round bbl., blue/casehardened/gold finish, pearl grips. Originally manufactured
in 1911, this outstanding Single Action Army revolver was
subsequently beautifully embellished by the legendary Colt Master
Engraver Alvin White, one of the most well-known and highly
respected American engravers of the 20th century. White is known
for being an exceptional artisan, not only in the realm of firearms
engraving, but many other artistic mediums, and pieces created by
him remain incredibly desirable in all manner of collections to this
day. The revolver features near full coverage, beautifully executed
floral scroll engraving with a punch dot background. There are gold
inlaid bands on the barrel at the muzzle and the breech, and there
are further gold bands at the rear of the cylinder. The frame and cylinder
both have gold inlaid borders. The recoil shield features a very detailed, relief
engraved, gold American bison head, and the initials “RMS” are gold inlaid at the top
of the grip strap. White’s usual signature, “AAWHITE/ENG.” in a sunken silvered rectangle
stamp is on the left of the front strap under the
grip. The standard two-line patent dates
marking is visible on the left of the
frame, and matching serial numbers
are marked on the frame, trigger
guard, and back strap. The loading
gate is marked with the assembly number
“337”. It is fitted with a period replacement King
patent reflective front sight and the standard frame-top groove rear sight, as well as a
pair of very attractive smooth pearl grips.
CONDITION: Very fine, retains 95% plus of the professionally restored blue and casehardened finishes with a couple scattered small patches of very light surface pitting and some of the engraving on the barrel very slightly softened. The gold inlays are excellent and remain bright. The grips are slightly ill-sized, with a few slight overhangs and gaps, and show minimal handling evidence. Mechanically excellent. A beautiful piece by the legendary artisan Alvin White that would make a fantastic addition to any collection!
160 Estimate: 14,000 - 25,000