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FEATURED IN "THE TEXAS GUN COLLECTOR" FROM FALL 2000
LOT 184
Documented Factory Engraved Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolver with Mexican Eagle Carved Grip, Factory Letter, and Holster - Serial no. 185335, 44 cal., 8 inch round bbl., blue/casehardened/
silver finish, antique ivory grips. This revolver was manufactured in 1870, but the included factory letter
from 1971 indicates it was part of a shipment of 13 guns in .44 caliber with 8 inch barrels, blue finish, and factory engraving shipped to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham Co. on March 21, 1878. Given
the continued popularity of Colt percussion revolvers in Mexico in the period and the raised relief carved Mexican golden eagle, rattlesnake, and cactus motif on the right side of the grip, this revolver was almost certainly destined for Mexico early during the rule of General Porfirio Diaz. Given the size of
the order and the decoration, it is possible these were ordered for a group of loyal officers. This classic revolver is also featured on page 150 of the included Fall 2000 issue of “The Texas Gun Collector” in a
page for Robert G. Smith and is discussed in an included letter from Herb Glass in 1977 indicating he sold the revolver and noting: “As you know, many of the late percussion period Colts went to Mexico. This gun was decorated in accordance with the tastes of that country and undoubtedly was sold there. Incidentally,
the late shipping date listed in the factory letter (itself a rare and highly desirable asset for an engraved percussion Colt) is further evidence of a destination south of the border. Any collector with historical interest in his guns could not help but feel the romance of this lovely Army.”
The revolver features floral scroll engraving without a beaded background on the barrel, frame, and grip frame as well as line and dot borders for the roll-scene on the cylinder, a wolf head motif on the hammer,
and entwining lines on the butt. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight and the one-line New York address. The left side of the frame has the “COLTS/PATENT” marking. “44 CAL” is marked on the left
side of the trigger guard. The factory “E” marking for engraving is marked above or below the matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the cylinder also has the matching
partial serial number “335.” The grip features the noted raised relief carved motif on the right side based on the Mexican coat of arms. The revolver is accompanied by a dark leather holster.
CONDITION: Very good with distinct engraving and markings, gray and brown patina, aged patina and traces of original silver on the trigger guard, and moderate overall wear typical of antique firearms from Mexico. The grip is also very good and has distinct carving, numerous age cracks, attractive grain, some
shrinkage, and moderate wear. Mechanically fine. The holster is very good with hardened leather and mild wear.
Provenance: Herb Glass; The Robert G. Smith Collection.
Estimate: 7,500 - 12,000
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