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LOT 144
Extremely Fine and Desirable Documented Nickel Plated Antique Colt Single
Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter - Serial no. 85170, 45 Long Colt cal., 7
1/2 inch round bbl., nickel finish, walnut grips. The accompanying factory letter states
this revolver was shipped on December 13, 1882, to H&D Folsom of New York City, in
.45 caliber and nickel finish, with barrel length and type of grip not listed, a common
indication of a 7 1/2 inch barrel and walnut grip, which were standard for the period.
This shipment was for 15 guns. H&D Folsom Arms Company was a large wholesale and
retail sporting goods dealer, a first stop for thousands of firearms that were destined to
head farther west. The Colt Single Action Army was one of the most popular handguns
in the late 19th century, and is easily the most iconic and most thoroughly associated
with the American West. This example was manufactured in a time when much of the
West remained untamed.
The top of the barrel has the standard one-line Colt Hartford address on top, the left
of the frame has the three-line patent dates, “45 CAL” marked on the left of the trigger
guard, matching serial number marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and
butt, with assembly number “3563” marked on the loading gate. It is fitted with blade
and groove sights and a smooth walnut one-piece grip.
CONDITION: Extremely fine, retains 85% plus original nickel plated finish, with a few
spots of flaking and minor pitting on the loading gate, left barrel, and rear butt, with
absolutely sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. Grip is excellent, with tight
fitment, minimal handling marks, a minor hairline at the upper left, and crisp edges. The
hammer does not properly engage full cock, mechanically needs work. An attractive
and desirable antique Colt Single Action Army revolver with factory nickel finish!
Provenance: The Brig & Louise Pemberton Collection.
Estimate: 8,500 - 13,000
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