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The loading lever arm has the distinctive checkering/
knurling noted above. The cylinder features the detailed
roll-scene of a hunter firing at five deer along with “COLT’S
PATENT/SPORTING RIFLE” and “Engraved/By” and “W.
ORMSBY./N.Y.” The barrel is equipped with a dovetailed
blade front sight and is inscribed “Address S. Colt Hartford
Ct. U.S.A.” on top at the breech. The frame has a notch rear
sight on the top strap, the distinctive oiler on the left, and
“COLTS/PATENT” inscribed on the left below the cylinder.
The rifle also features its rare and original cleaning rod
mounted to the left, a double spur trigger guard, a deluxe
walnut buttstock with a checkered wrist, and crescent
buttplate. The matching early serial number “29” is marked
on the loading lever, underside of the barrel, front of the
frame, cylinder, trigger guard, and buttplate. To find a
better example of a factory engraved Colt Revolving Rifle
would be nearly impossible and with such history, this
example is worthy of the finest collection of engraved Colt
percussion arms.
CONDITION: Fine with crisp engraving and markings,
distinct cylinder scene, 90% plus bright original high polish
blue on the frame, 70% mottled early soft style blue on
the barrel, gray and brown patina on the balance, minor
oxidation, and general mild wear. The stock is also fine
with much of the original varnish, a professionally repaired
hairline crack at the wrist (almost imperceptible), crisp
wrist checkering, a few minor flakes absent, and mild dings
and scratches. Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Collection of the Nizam of Hyderabad;
The Frank Singer Collection;
The Robert Petersen Collection; Greg Martin;
Michael Simens Collection.
Estimate: 85,000 - 150,000