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LOT 1125
Rare Documented Factory
Engraved, Gold Inlaid, and
Presentation Inscribed Colt New
Pocket .32 Double Action Revolver
with Pearl Grips and Factory Letter - Serial no. 25613,
32 Colt cal., 3 1/2 inch round bbl., blue finish, pearl grips.
This attractive factory engraved, inlaid and presentation
inscribed revolver was manufactured in 1904. On
page 370 of “The Book of Colt Firearms”, Sutherland
and Wilson note that the factory records for the New
Pocket model revolver lists fewer than 15 being factory
engraved, fewer than 10 being factory inlaid with gold,
and fewer that 15 being hand inscribed. They go on to
note that these revolvers displayed the typical contemporary
engraving designs seen on other Colt revolvers at the time. Cuno A. Helfricht was the main master
engraver at the time this revolver was made. The engraving covers more than 75% of the surfaces including
the sides of the frame, cylinder, and barrel, and it features mostly floral scroll on a punchdot background. The
factory inscription on the back strap reads, “Presented to T.J. COYLE/by his friends Dec. 15 1904.” The factory
“TJC” gold monogram is featured on the side plate. The accompanying factory letter confirms the revolver’s
configuration including these extremely rare and highly sought after special order features. The letter states
that the revolver was shipped to H.C. Hallaner (address unavailable) on November 30, 1904 with a 3 1/2
inch barrel in .32 caliber, blue finish, pearl stocks, factory engraving, “TJC” gold inlaid monogram, and the
aforementioned back strap presentation inscription. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-
line address and patent dates, and the left side of the barrel is marked “COLT D.A. 32” in a banner. The right
side of the frame has the Rampant Colt with “COLT” and “NEW POCKET” above and below. This frame marking
is commonly observed on the left side of the frame but was moved to the right side on this example to
accommodate the factory gold inlaid monogram.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retaining 80% original blue finish with a mix of thinning and smooth gray patina on
the balance. The engraving and inscription are crisp. The monogram retains nearly all of the original gold inlay. The
grips are very fine with chips at each toe and highly attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. This rare factory
engraved, gold inlaid, and presentation inscribed Colt New Model revolver will bring added dimension to any Colt
or high art firearms collection.
Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection.
Estimate: 20,000 - 30,000