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LOT 116
Historic Perry Hardware Co. of Texas Sold Nickel Plated Colt Bisley Model
Single Action Army Revolver Presentation Inscribed to a Texas Sheriff with
Factory Pearl Grips and Factory Letter - Serial no. 284193, 45 Long Colt cal., 4
3/4 inch round bbl., nickel finish, pearl grips. The factory letter states the revolver
was sold to Perry Hardware Co. (address unavailable) and shipped to Norvell
Shapleigh Hardware Co. of St. Louis, Missouri, on January 3, 1907 as well as
confirms the 4 ¾ inch barrel in .45 caliber, nickel finish, and pearl stocks. This was
a single gun shipment. The back strap features a period presentation inscription:
“Presented by Perry Hardware Co. to Bates Cox.” Bates Cox (1876-1950) served as
deputy sheriff in Erath County and later as sheriff from 1906 until 1910. When he
was elected sheriff in 1906 he was one of the youngest men in the state to hold
that office. In 1917, he joined the Texas and Pacific Coal Company and was a field
manager at the time of his death. Founded in 1888, the Texas and Pacific Coal
Company was the leading coal producer in the State of Texas. Throughout his life
Cox was active in state and national politics. Perry Hardware Co. was located in
Stephenville, Texas. The Colt Bisley model was only manufactured in 1894-1912
and was designed by Colt with accuracy and target shooting in mind. For many,
the Bisley feels better in the hand and cocks and fires easier thanks to its lower
and wider hammer and the wider trigger, making them excellent sidearms for
serious marksmen. The revolver also features standard Colt markings, “3” and Colt
factory triangle proof on the left side of the trigger guard, and matching serial
numbers on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, and both pearl grip panels.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% untouched original nickel plated
finish. 97% vivid original case colors remain on the hammer. 95% original nitre
blue remains on the screws, trigger, and cylinder pin. The grips are excellent with
a couple tiny chips and highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. An
intriguing presentation Colt Bisley Model Revolver that will be a great addition to
any Texas or law enforcement collection.
Estimate: 10,000 - 15,000
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