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The high quality engraving on this revolver displays the characteristics of deluxe patterns
associated with Colt Master Engraver Cuno Helfricht and his shop. Helfricht spent his nearly
50 year career exclusively with the Colt firm (1871-1921). During his tenure with Colt, Helfricht
saw the transition from percussion to cartridge firearms and a rapidly growing market for
engraved firearms. At the height of the firearm engraving fad, Helfricht oversaw a shop of six
engravers. By the turn of the century, experts believe that Helfricht did most of the work himself
with the help from one to two assistants. Helfricht’s successor’s included famed Colt engravers
Wilbur Glahn and William Gough. The revolver is embellished with wonderful factory engraving
consisting of floral scrollwork on beaded backgrounds, with fan motifs on the recoil shield, loading
gate, and top of the back strap, and wavy zigzag line and dot designs. The standard one-line Colt
Hartford address is stamped on top of the barrel, with the caliber marking “45 COLT” on the left in a banner. The
two-line patent dates and circled Rampant Colt are on the left of the frame. The matching serial number is visible
on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, with assembly number “163” on the loading gate. It is
fitted with blade and groove sights, and highly attractive two-piece pearl grips with a relief carved steer head on
the right grip panel. There are few firearms that exude the character, grit, and style of the American frontier like
the Colt Single Action Army revolver. The revolver found itself almost immediately popular as a sidearm upon its
release in the mid-late 1800s, and that popularity continued well into the 20th century among those with a desire
for unwaveringly reliable firepower. The factory engraving, steer carved on the right grip, and exceptional condition
combine to make this beautiful antique Single Action Army among the most desirable of all Colt revolvers.
CONDITION: Very fine overall as both a well cared for and well traveled factory engraved Colt Single Action Army
with hints of desirable frontier character, retains 80% original nickel plated finish with minor holster finish wear
on the balance exhibiting smooth brown patina, crisp engraving and distinct carved steer head. Mechanically
functions. A highly attractive documented factory engraved and St. Louis shipped antique Colt Single Action Army
revolver with carved steer head pearl grips worthy of the finest Old West or Colt collection!
Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection.
Estimate: 20,000 - 35,000 183