Page 115 - 4096-FLIPBOOK3

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, although the hammer is missing the half
cock notch. 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: 25,000 - 37,500
113