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The Factory records indicate that pistols were shipped to
J.P. Moore’s Sons, New York City, and do not mention
Spandau nor the London Agency. J.P. Moore’s Sons were
transfer agents for the Colt Company. The guns were
shipped to J.P. Moore’s Sons actually for the purpose of
sending them out of the country rather than for their
sales room.” This revolver, no. 1415, is listed among
the lot of 40 in Moore’s “Colt Single Action Army
Revolvers and the London Agency”
The revolver was examined by noted Colt
historian and author Ron Graham, who recorded
his observations in his accompanying handwritten
letter. No. 1415 received some factory updates
before being shipped out in 1887. The ejector rod
housing tip and back strap toe were beveled. The
beveling is featured in later production guns. The most
significant improvement came with the milling of the bolt stop
approaches. Early production SAA cylinders frequently would over spin
when a loaded revolver was rapidly cocked. Creating proper bolt stop approaches
corrected the problem on this 1873 production SAA. Graham also noted that
likely “a few springs [were] also included in the mechanically upgrading.” Graham’s
overall impression: “Serial number 1415 is a spectacular, early civilian production
Single Action Colt. It provides a great opportunity for researchers and collectors to
observe the results of early factory manufacturing and corrective procedures. And
because this SA still possess nearly all of its factory finish, observations are indeed
pleasurable and exciting.”
CONDITION: Very fine, retaining 60% bright high polish blue and 70% original
casehardened finishes with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The grip is
excellent with some minor handling marks, edge wear, and most of the original
varnish remaining. Mechanically functions fine, although is missing half cock notch
in hammer. This is an incredible opportunity to acquire one of only 40 Colt SAAs in
.45 LC shipped to Prussia. Its condition and historical significance to the Colt legacy
makes this SAA a true rarity. As Ron Graham proclaimed, “This is a great gun!”
Provenance: Clarence Summers Hunter and family; Property of a Gentleman.
Estimate: 40,000 - 60,000
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