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LOT 3175
Excellent Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver with Original Box
and Factory Letter - Serial no. 344825, 45 Long Colt cal., 5 1/2 inch round bbl., blue/
casehardened finish, smooth grips. The Colt Single Action Army Revolver is arguably the
most iconic American handgun. In the hands of ranchers, cavalrymen, Native Americans,
lawmen, and outlaws, the Peacemaker’s legacy was forged out in the hostile American West
and continues to gain popularity among today’s collectors, especially those in high condition.
It, alongside the Winchester Model 1873, are often cited as the “guns that won the west”. Offered here is an exceptional example of the legendary
Peacemaker chambered in the iconic .45 Long Colt caliber. The accompanying factory letter from 1967 states: “Although we have been unable to
date to locate this weapon in our shipping ledgers we have examined the pistol and the original box that is still with it. From the serial number on
the bottom of the box and the data printed and attached on the end of the box we are able to confirm the following information on Single Action
#344825:” 5 1/2 inch barrel, blue finish, and type of grip material. The revolver was manufactured in 1923. The barrel is marked with the one-line
Hartford address on top and “45 COLT” on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt.
The left side of the trigger guard is stamped with the number “3” above the Colt factory triangle proof. The grips feature silver Rampant Colt medallions.
Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. Matching assembly number “432” appears on the loading gate and rear
of the frame. The included original black hinge lid box is numbered to the gun and features an end label that lists the
caliber, barrel length, and grip material. Brig Pemberton purchased this revolver in 1966 from the New York firearms
dealer Al Kelley-Jack Malloy. The Pemberton’s 1966 purchase receipt is included.
CONDITION: Excellent, retaining 98% original blue finish and vivid original case colors with an extremely small, lightly
pitted bright spot visible on the cylinder, faint cylinder drag line, and minimal handling marks. The grips are also
excellent with minimal handling marks and attractive color. Mechanically functions, although needs work as hammer
does not hold in the full cock position, otherwise action cycles properly. The box is very good with a separated lid corner
and overall wear. An exceptional example of a Colt Single Action Army .45 LC revolver from the roaring twenties.
Provenance: The Brig & Louise Pemberton Collection.
Estimate: 15,000 - 25,000
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