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LOT 83
Incredibly Rare Documented Antique B. Kittredge & Co. Shipped Colt “Omnipotent” Etched Panel Model 1878 Double Action Revolver
with Factory Letter - Serial no. 4799, 45 Long Colt cal., 7 1/2 inch round bbl., nickel finish, hard rubber grips. The Model 1878 was Colt’s first large
frame double action revolver and, until recently, has been overshadowed by its legendary cousin, the Single Action Army. In the words of famed
SAA expert and author John Kopec, “The Colt Model 1878 Double Action Army revolver has always held a more or less secondary place in the
Colt collecting field. That is until now!” In recent years the Model 1878 has become increasingly popular with collectors who are rediscovering its
legacy in Colt heritage and in U.S. history in general. Just like the SAA, the Model 1878 shaped American history out on the western frontier. The
Model 1878 was used by settlers, lawmen and outlaws during America’s push to the West Coast. Its association with the Wild West alone has made
the Model 1878 a very collectible American handgun. The Model 1878 has also found a special place with military collectors. The U.S. Ordnance
Department purchased 4,600 Model 1878s known as the Philippine or Alaskan models, which saw action during the Philippine-American War
and Moro Rebellion. High condition examples are catching the eye of serious collectors, especially those looking for rare variations such as this
example. Offered here is one of less than 200 ”Omnipotent” marked Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolvers.
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