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/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #78

Premier Firearms Auction #78

December 06, 2019 to December 08, 2019

This auction has ended.

/Auctions...
/Premier Firearms Auction #78

Premier Firearms Auction #78

December 06, 2019 to December 08, 2019

This auction has ended.

Auction Time Summary

Preview DayThursday, Dec 5th10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION IFriday, Dec 6th9 AMLots 1 through 882

SESSION IISaturday, Dec 7th9 AMLots 1000 through 1959

SESSION IIISunday, Dec 8th9 AMLots 3000 through 3931

To Be Sold At Auction

Preview Day Thursday December 5th
Open at 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SESSION I - Friday, December 6th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1 and 882
SESSION II - Saturday, December 7th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 1000 and 1959
SESSION III - Sunday, December 8th
TIME: Commencing at 9 a.m. selling between Lots 3000 and 3931

Phone: 1-309-797-1500
Rock Island Auction Company
7819 42 Street West
Rock Island, Illinois, 61201, USA

Phone: 1-309-797-1500

Toll-Free: 1-800-238-8022

Email: [email protected]

Rock Island Auction Company - Rock Island

7819 42nd Street West

Rock Island, IL, 61201, USA

Page 1 of 56

Showing 1-50 of 2,767 results

Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Lot 1

Cased Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

This beautiful revolver was manufactured in 1855 and factory engraved by Master Engraver Gustave Young's shop. It has his distinctive scroll engraving patterns and the factory dot marking used to designate revolvers selected for special finishing by the main serial number locations. Note the detailed dog head in the scrolls on the left side of the barrel ahead of the wedge. The hammer has the wolf head design. The barrel has a small conical front sight and "Saml Colt" script engraved on top. The cylinder has the standard stagecoach scene and patent marking. The frame has "COLTS/PATENT" engraved in arches on the left side. The trigger guard has an "S" on the left side at the front. The serial numbers all match, including "1931" hand-written inside the back strap mortise of the grip. The case has dark green lining, led balls and conical bullets, a blued dual cavity bullet mold, Eley cap tin, double sided eagle powder flask, and package of combustible envelope cartridges.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Price Realized:

Lot 2

Colt Richards "Second Model" Conversion Model 1860 Army

This is a transitional variant between the standard Richards and Richards-Mason conversion. They were built around 1877-1878 with the newer Richards-Mason style conversion plate and hammer but still used the older Richards conversion type ejector and barrel assembly. They were manufactured alongside the ever popular Colt Single Action Army as a way for Colt to use remaining parts and tooling on hand and also offered a more economical choice to buyers that had an overall style familiar to many who had used Colt's percussion revolvers in the Civil War. The serial number dates to 1871 within the percussion Model 1860 Army serial number range. The revolver features a German silver blade front sight, the one-line "U.S. AMERICA" barrel address, the two-line 1871 and 1872 patent marking over the original "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame, standard cylinder roll scene, "44 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, and matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, cylinder, loading gate, trigger guard, and back strap.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 Colt CF

Price Realized:

Factory Engraved, Gustave Young Attributed, Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver Attributed as Owned by Jacqueline Kennedy's Father

Lot 3

Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

Includes a copy of the Guernsey "Documents and Artifacts Relating to the Life and Career of John F. Kennedy" catalog and relevant pages from the auction catalog supplement from March 1998 listing a "Colt Six Shooter" as "American Navy presentation model, circa 1851. This steel Colt Six Shooter with ivory handle, believed to be of the Civil War era, belonged to John (Jack) Vernou Bouvier III, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy's father. It is a front load weapon. The steel barrel and side pieces have beautiful detail work." The invoices for the purchase are included as well. No serial number is mentioned. John Vernou "Black Jack" Bouvier III (1891-1957) was an sailor and soldier in WWI, a Wall Street stockbroker, socialite, the father of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy (later Onassis) and thus the father-in-law of President John F. Kennedy. The revolver is actually a Model 1849 Pocket and was manufactured in 1854 and embellished by the shop of Master Engraver Gustave Young, likely by the master himself given the quality. The engraving has his classic inhabited scroll engraving which features an bird face below the hammer screw on the left and a dog face above the wedge on the right. The hammer has eight dots indicating around 80 hours were required for the engraving. Germanic scroll engraving extends to the barrel, loading lever, hammer, trigger guard, and back strap. The "COLTS/PATENT" marking is hand engraved in arches, and the barrel has "Saml Colt" likewise hand inscribed in script. Both of these are features common on Gustave Young engraved Colts, see "The Book of Colt Engraving" by R.L. Wilson for examples of Young's work such as the '51 Navy on page 59. The dot by the main serial numbers was used around 1849-1861 to denote special finishing and handling by the factory. All of the serial visible numbers match. The cylinder has the standard roll-scene and markings. "4" is marked by the serial numbers on the cylinder and barrel.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31

Lot 4

U.S. Colt Third Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver

This is an example of a U.S. contract Colt Third Model Dragoon revolver that was manufactured in 1851. The revolver has the round brass trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops found on Third Model Dragoons. The top flat of the barrel is marked "{ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY}", the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT" over "U.S.", the left upper front of the trigger guard is marked with a small "F", and the area ahead of the trigger is marked with a small "S". The cylinder is roll engraved with the Ranger and Indian battle scene and marked "MODEL U.S.M.R./COLT'S PATENT". The complete matching serial number is stamped on the barrel lug, frame, barrel wedge, trigger guard, cylinder and back strap, the partial number "1998" is on the loading lever, and the partial serial number "998" is on the arbor pin. Standard brass blade front sight and hammer notch rear sight and fitted with smooth one-piece walnut grip with a faint cartouche on both sides. The Ordnance Department purchased 5,386 Colt Third Model Dragoon revolvers between 1851 and 1860. Most of these revolvers saw hard use on the frontier with the U.S. Dragoons and Mounted Rifles and were subsequently used by both sides during the Civil War.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 percussion

Price Realized:

Pair of Prominent California Pioneer Family Owned and Inscribed Colt Model 1860 Army Percussion Revolvers -A) Colt Model 1860 Army Revolver

Lot Contains 2 Items

Lot 5

California Pioneer Family's Pair of Colt Model 1860 Revolvers

Offered here is a historic pair of Colt Model 1860 Army revolvers once owned by a prominent California pioneer family. Each revolver features a professionally shortened barrel and loading lever and altered front sight as done during the period to meet the owner's specific preferences. The "A" revolver is stamped "AO LARKIN" and hand marked "LARKIN" on the left side of the grip. The "B" revolver is stamped "AO LARKIN" on the left side of the grip and on the front grip strap. The "A" revolver is assembled from various Model 1860 parts; the major components have differing serial numbers, and the butt has a San Anselmo, California Police Department marking ("S.A.P.D. No. 68"). The frame serial number ("46292") will letter as shipped to the New York Arsenal on July 19, 1862, and the trigger guard ("27717") will letter as shipped to Major George Strong, who was outfitting General Benjamin Butler's New Orleans expedition, in Boston in January 1862. With the exception of the wedge ("5800"), the "B" revolver has matching numbered parts: barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder ("778"), and arbor pin ("1778"). This set was discovered some 40 years ago in Northern California by noted Colt collector Les May who obtained the revolvers directly from the Larkin family. Alfred O. Larkin (1847-1917) was the son of Thomas Larkin (1802-1858), an early pioneer who helped to settle Monterey, California, and took an active role in the political and business affairs of the area. In 1834, Thomas opened the first store in Monterey, and soon after, he and his wife moved into their newly built home which cost nearly $5,000 to build or about $145,000 in today's money. The home still stands today and has been entrusted to the California Department of Parks and Recreation since 1957. In 1843, President Tyler appointed Larkin as the first and what would be the last American consul to Alta California at a time when U.S.-Mexican relations were tense. Thomas covertly worked to assure benefactors that the U.S. supported California secession from Mexico and attempted to arrange a peaceful American annexation of California with some of the negotiations taking place at Larkin's home. The Bear Flag Revolt ended any hopes of a peaceful annexation, and the short-lived independence rebellion ended with the U.S. claiming California. Nevertheless, Thomas played a crucial role in America's takeover of California. Eventually Thomas settled in San Francisco where Larkin Street is named in his honor. He continued to advocate for California statehood and pursued various California business ventures. Thomas' youngest son Alfred, who owned these two Model 1860s, was among the earliest Caucasian children born in California and as an adult eventually settled in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where he married and raised his only daughter. Alfred was a man of independent means, attended Harvard, an avid traveler, and owned large investments in San Francisco property. He died in Hong Kong in 1917 while traveling in China. Comes with consignor research organized in a binder and comprised of copies of Larkin family pictures including Alfred and his daughter and articles documenting early Larkin family history, a copy of Eric Abrahamson's "Historic Monterey: California's Forgotten First Capital" documenting the Larkin house on page 47 and a copy of Charles Waldo Haskins' "The Argonauts of California," which lists Thomas Larkin as California pioneer on page 367.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 percussion

Exceptional Early Production Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 6

Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

The Colt Model 1851 Navy or "Revolving Belt Pistol of Naval Caliber" was the second most popular of all Colt percussion revolvers after only the more compact Model 1849 Pocket. When Samuel Colt was alive, it was this model that was probably the first to come to mind when someone brought up Colt's innovative "revolving pistols." Many were presented influential individuals at home and abroad to help establish the quality of Colt's wares. It was an excellent revolver for lawmen, soldier, and every day citizens who might need some protection. It had more power than the '49 Pocket but was still much easier to carry than the massive .44 caliber Colts such as the Walkers and Dragoons. This beautiful '51 Navy was manufactured in 1852, the third year of production, and was designated for factory engraving as can be seen by the dot by the matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap which Colt used to designate items for special finishing or engraving around 1849 to 1861. Matching serial numbers are also found on the loading lever, wedge, cylinder pin, and cylinder. The latter also has a "4" stamped perpendicular below. The "donut scroll" engraving matches other early Colt Navy revolvers that came out of Master Engraver Gustave Young's shop and consists of mainly intricate acanthus scroll patterns along with some floral and shell accents and a simpler, early version of his wolf head motif on the hammer. The cylinder has the standard Naval Battle of Campeche scene. The barrel has a small brass cone front sight and is marked "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-." The frame has "COLTS/PATENT" hand inscribed on the left side in place of the usual stamped marking. The grip is fancy grade walnut with a "piano" varnish finish. The case has burgundy colored lining, a section full of conical and round ball bullets, three cap tins, a package for 12 combustible envelope cartridges (8 inside), correct early pattern Colt Patent marked dual cavity bullet mold, a key, an L-shaped combination nipple wrench and screwdriver, and additional springs.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Extraordinary Documented and Historic Presentation Inscribed Colt Paterson Model 1839 Percussion Carbine Presented by Rhode Island Governor Samuel King to Company of Carbineers Sergeant Henry Clark

Lot 7

Colt Paterson Model 1839 Carbine Presented by RI Governor

The historical significance of this extraordinary Colt Model 1839 Paterson Carbine alone makes it worthy of a prominent museum as it is linked to America’s long and turbulent progress towards a more perfect Union. It is definitely the finest and most historic Model 1839 Carbine that we have ever cataloged. The Paterson Carbine pioneered the revolving system during the early efforts in the design and mass production of American firearms. Less than 1,000 were manufactured, and the low survivability rate makes these carbines one of the most sought after Colt percussion arms. The smooth bore barrel has a hinged loading tool attached to the right side of the lug, pin front sight, fixed dovetail rear sight and patent marking with snake and star terminals at each end on the left side. The six shot cylinder has the elaborate roll-engraved panel scenes. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the barrel and lower tang. The serial number "711" is found on the lower tang screw, two buttplate screws, trigger guard, breech end of the barrel, breech end of the cylinder, wedge, recoil shield face, and cylinder pin collar. The number "277" is on the buttplate. The select grade America walnut stock is varnished and has an eloquent silver presentation plaque beautifully inset on the right side. The inscription reads, "Presented by/His Excellency Samuel Ward King,/Govr. of the State of Rhode Island/TO/Henry C. Clark/Orderly Sergeant R.I. Carbineers./'As a slight memento of the gratitude of the/State for services rendered during the/late Dorr insurrection'/July 4th 1842." The buttstock’s finish and the bossed lip around the inlaid plaque suggests that the carbine was specially built for presentation. Only 950 Model 1839 Paterson Carbines were manufactured by Samuel Colt at the Paterson, New Jersey, factory. One of the more unusual purchases of the Model 1839 Carbine was made by the State of Rhode Island in June 1842. Known for his central role in the 1842 Dorr's Rebellion, Rhode Island politician and reformer Thomas Wilson Dorr (1805-1854) was the leader of a popular movement for universal manhood suffrage. At this time, Rhode Island was still under colonial law that restricted the vote to men owning $134 in land, leaving a growing number of citizens disenfranchised. A state constitutional convention was called in an attempt to remedy grievances and control Dorr's rising movement, but the new constitution, which provided much of what Dorr and his followers wanted, was defeated. In response, Dorr’s followers drafted their own constitution and government. For a time, Rhode Island had two state governments: one governed by Dorr and the other governed by Samuel King. King declared Dorr’s movement as an insurrection. Martial law was declared, many of Dorr’s followers were imprisoned, and Dorr was indicted for treason. Dorr countered with an attack on the Providence arsenal, which was defeated by the state militia. Dorr subsequently fled the state, and King offered a $5,000 reward for the capture of Dorr. Eventually, a new state constitution extending voting rights was drafted, and once the new constitution was ratified, Dorr surrendered to state authorities. Dorr was found guilty of treason and sentenced to solitary confinement at hard labor for life. His sentence was widely condemned, and he was released from prison after serving twelve months. Today, Rhode Island's state government recognizes the legitimacy of Dorr's efforts and includes Dorr in its list of governors. When King declared martial law, he authorized a temporary expansion of the state’s militia. Rhode Island Company of Carbineers was one of the new formed units. This unit was commanded by prosperous New York merchant James N. Olney and was armed with Paterson Model 1839 Carbines purchased from John Ehlers at the state’s behest. The Carbineers participated in the so-called battles of Chepachet and Pawtucket on June 28 and 29, 1842. After the failed assault on the arsenal, Dorr briefly returned to his native state in June to assemble a small band of armed followers on Acote's Hill in Chepachet, but the followers dispersed once they realized they would be defeated by the state militia. Dorr once again sought refuge out of state where he remained until he surrendered in 1843. In recognition of the Carbineers’ service, Governor King presented its officers and senior sergeants with inscribed carbines like this one on July 4, 1842. At the time of this writing no further information related to Henry C. Clark was found. This carbine is identified in R.L. Wilson's "Magnificent Colts" on pages 98-100 and "Steel Canvas" on page 113.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 54

Price Realized:

Lot 8

Col. Samuel Colt Presentation Colt Model 1855 Root

Factory engraved and cased Colt Model 1855 Sidehammer Pocket Revolver engraved on the back strap: "To John McAuley Palmer Esq/WITH COMPLEMENTS OF COL. COLT". Manufactured in 1859, this Model 2 1855 Sidehammer revolver has a 3 1/2-inch octagon barrel with brass cone front sight, part round/part octagon loading lever and unfluted, five shot, .28 caliber cylinder. The top of the barrel has the two-line Hartford address with pointing hand motif and the cylinder is hand engraved with the Cabin and Indian scene and "COLTS PATENT" markings. The serial number is stamped on the underside of the barrel, side of the cylinder and butt. All of the visible serial numbers match. The barrel, frame and cylinder have the Colt high polish blue finish. The loading lever and hammer are color casehardened. The one-piece grip is nicely figured walnut with a high polish piano finish. The barrel, loading lever, frame, hammer, back strap and rear portion of the cylinder are engraved with relief cut Germanic scrollwork on a punch-dot background. The engraving was executed for Colt by Gustave Young, and his telltale punch dots are present on the hammer below the spur. Each dot represented a 10 hour day of work. The hammer on this richly embellished revolver has ten dots. Samuel Colt presented a number of cased and engraved Model 1855 Sidehammer revolvers to friends and business associates. Included with this revolver is a script signature of John Palmer. The revolver is complete with a Colt mahogany American style case and period accessories. The case has five compartments and is lined with brown velvet. The case contains: small tin of F. Joyce & Co. No. 21 percussion caps, brass bow-leg double cavity bullet mold stamped "COLTS/PATENT" on the sprue cutter and "K" on the side of the right block, pocket pistol powder flask with fixed charger embossed on both sides with an eagle and shield, crossed revolvers and "E.PLURIBUS.UNUM" in a ribbon, key and numerous .28 caliber round bullets. John McAuley Palmer (1817-1900) was a Civil War Union Major General, 15th Illinois Governor, Illinois State Senator, United States Senator and United States presidential candidate. Prior to the Civil War, Palmer was an ardent abolitionist and served in the Illinois State Senate as both a regular Democrat and independent Democrat. In 1856, however, he played a major role in the formation of the Illinois Republican party and ran as a Republican in 1859 but was defeated. During the Civil War, Palmer reached the rank of major general, commanded a division under John Pope, and was promoted to the command of XIV Corps which he led at Chattanooga and in the Atlanta campaign. He was relieved from command at his own request in August 1864 "as a result of a quibble over relative rank, an incident which did not reflect particularly favorably on him." The incident resulted in him being reassigned to command all Federal forces in Kentucky. He remained in the Army until 1866. During his postbellum career, Palmer was elected governor of Illinois on the Republican ticket in 1868 but soon turned his allegiance back to the Democratic party. In 1891 he was elected to the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Five years later Palmer and ex-Confederate General Simon Buckner ran an unsuccessful bid for U.S. president and vice president respectively as Gold Democrat candidates. Palmer and Buckner received just over 1% of the vote. Comes with research related to Palmer including military service records, letters (copies) and secondary source material with letters including one letter from dealer Arnold Chernoff to the current consignor's father about the sale of this revolver.

Documentation

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 28 Percussion

Price Realized:

Lot 9

Colt First Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver

This revolver was manufactured in 1848, the first year of production, and has a German silver blade front sight, "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY" reading from the breech towards the muzzle, "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." on the left side of the frame, hammer notch rear sight, "900" on the replaced wedge, and matching partial or full serial numbers on the loading lever, cylinder pin (remarked), barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The markings on the cylinder are not visible. The First Model Dragoon is an important descendant of the famous Colt Walker revolver which debuted just one year earlier and was meant for use by the U.S. Mounted Rifles and U.S. Dragoons. They were also purchased by civilians, including some that headed to the newly discovered gold fields of California and were reportedly sold for $400 in gold or more.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44

Price Realized:

Desirable Squareback Trigger Guard Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 10

Squareback Trigger Guard Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

The Colt Model 1851 Navy was the second most popular of all the Colt percussion revolvers, after only the Model 1849 Pocket, and 215,348 of these revolvers were manufactured in 1850-1873. This early revolver was manufactured in the first year of production and has the distinctive combination of the wedge under the screw and the square-back trigger guard that differentiates the Second Model from the other variations. It has a brass cone front sight, "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" on the top of the barrel, small "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the frame, the standard roll scene on the cylinder, and matching serial numbers on the loading lever, barrel, wedge, frame, and grip straps. The arbor pin does not have a number visible. Some initials starting with "W" are hand inscribed on the butt.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Early Production Civil War Era Colt Model 1862 Police Percussion Revolver Inscribed "D.M. Wheeler", "Auburn, N.Y."

Lot 11

Inscribed Early Colt Model 1862 Police Percussion Revolver

Manufactured in 1861 with a brass post front sight, "-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT.-" on the top of the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT" on the left side of the frame, a small "G" on the left side of the trigger guard, "PAT SEPT 10TH 1850" in once cylinder flute, matching serial numbers (none found on the grip), and "D.M. WHEELER/Auburn, Ny" in script inscribed on the butt. No details on Wheeler have been located, but Auburn was a important center of the anti-slavery movement and was the home of Harriet Tubman, William Seward, and other abolitionists.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 12

Cased Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver

This revolver was manufactured in 1863 and has a German silver blade front sight, "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-" on top of the barrel, standard Navy roll scene on the cylinder, "COLTS/PATENT" on the left side of the frame, "2" on the left side of the trigger guard, and matching serial numbers, including the grip which has the number hand marked along with a "W" stamp. The case also contains an two-side eagle and arms pattern flask with sloping spout, "36 B" and "COLT'S/PATENT" marked bullet mold, cap tin, and some bullets.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 13

U.S. Contract Colt Second Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver

This U.S. Contract Model 1848 Dragoon revolver was manufactured c. 1851. This pistol was manufactured as part of the Fifth Contract between Colt and the Ordnance Department executed on May 8, 1851, for 2,000 pistols (approximate serial numbers 8500-12000). The combination of rectangular cylinder stops and square-back brass trigger guard identify the revolver as a Second Model Dragoon. The part-octagon/part-round barrel has a nickel-silver front sight blade, and the top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the legend: "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" reading from the muzzle to the breech. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Ranger and Indian fight scene and "MODEL U.S.M.R./COLTS PATENT" on either side of the serial number. "COLTS/PATENT/U.S." is roll-stamped in three lines near the left front of the frame. A "B" Ordnance sub-inspection mark is stamped on the top barrel flat, left side of the frame, cylinder, left side of the hammer, bottom of the trigger guard and top of the back strap. The lower left side of the one-piece walnut grip is stamped with the Ordnance sub-inspector's script initials "JSB" enclosed in a rectangle, and the lower right side of the grip is stamped with the Ordnance final inspector's script initials "WAT" enclosed in an oval. The full serial number is stamped: (1) on the bottom of the barrel lug, (2) bottom of the frame, (3) bottom of the trigger guard, (4) bottom of the back strap and (5) side of the cylinder. The partial serial number "1085" is stamped on the loading lever. All of the visible serial numbers match. The U.S. Contract Model 1848 Dragoon revolvers were the primary handguns of the First and Second Dragoon Regiments and the U.S. Mounted Riflemen from 1849 until the Civil War. These scarce and historic revolvers saw hard service on the frontier and have a low survival rate. They are desirable in any condition.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 percussion

Very Fine "U.S." Marked W. Stokes Kirk Type Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 14

"U.S." Marked W. Stokes Kirk Type Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

The revolver has "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" on top of the barrel, a "2" on the lower left of the barrel lug, the standard Texas Navy battle scene on the cylinder, "COLTS/PATENT/US" on the left side of the frame, "H" at the top of the back strap, no serial numbers at the primary locations, "45" on the left side of the hammer above the roller, what appears to be "9917" hand written in the back strap mortise of the grip, and "14" on the loading lever, cylinder, and arbor pin. These revolvers are believed to have been assembled from original parts at the surplus goods store of William Stokes Kirk in Philadelphia in the first half of the 20th century.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 15

Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver

The Model 1861 Navy at first glance is very similar to the Model 1860 Army and employs a round barrel and "creeping" loading lever like the '60 Army. The most notable difference aside from the caliber itself is the non-rebated cylinder. These revolvers were used during the Civil War and also in the West. Only 38,843 of these revolvers were manufactured compared to over 200,500 of the Model 1860 Army and around 272,000 Model 1851 Navies making surviving examples desirable and those in high condition especially sought after. This revolver was manufactured in 1863 for the commercial market and may have been a private purchased sidearm used during the Civil War but also clearly very well cared for. It has the standard markings and features including all matching serial numbers (including the grip).

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 16

Cased Colt Model 1848 Baby Dragoon Percussion Revolver

This revolver was manufactured in 1850, subsequently restored in the 20th century, and is marked with "-ADDRESS SAML COLT/NEW YORK CITY-" on the top of the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT" on the left side of the frame, the hold up scene on the cylinder, and matching serial numbers. A "K" is marked under the serial number on the trigger guard. Small British proofmarks are on the left side of the barrel and between the nipples on the cylinder. It has the standard post and hammer notch sights. It also features a solid barrel lug not cut for a loading lever or loading slot. The squared back trigger guard identifies it as a Baby Dragoon though it could easily be mistaken for a "Wells Fargo" Model 1849 variation at a glance. This example also falls in the overlapping portion of the Model 1848 and 1849 serial number range. Only 15,000 Model 1848 were produced between 1847 and 1850 compared to around 350,000 Model 1849 Pocket revolvers produced from 1850 to 1873. The revolver comes in a later fitted relined case with a package of "5 Combustible Envelope Cartridges", reproduction powder flask, combination nipple wrench/screw driver, oiler, Colt patent bullet mold, and Eley Bros. cap tin.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 31 percussion

Price Realized:

Documented and Rare Early Small Iron Trigger Guard Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver

Lot 17

Early Small Iron Trigger Guard Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

This is a very scarce representative example of an iron grip frame. Third Variation Colt Model 1851 Navy that was manufactured in 1853. Includes a scan of a page from the chapter "Navies with Small Iron Trigger guards" that lists this revolver's serial number as the first of the known low serial number small iron trigger guard Model 1851 Navy revolvers. The survey lists only 45 of these pre-serial number 30000 small iron trigger guard variants and 650 of the later variants (40938-80160). It has a period dovetailed blade front sight, "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" on top of the barrel, the standard Naval Battle of Campeche cylinder scene, small "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame, smooth walnut grip, and all matching serial numbers aside from the grip which has no legible number ("2" marked directly above the barrel number and just behind the cylinder number).

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 36

Price Realized:

Lot 18

Colt Model 1871-1872 Open Top Single Action Revolver

Manufactured circa 1872-1873, this was one of approximately only 7,000 manufactured. The Model 1871-1872 was a direct predecessor of the hugely successful Colt Single Action Army Revolver. The top of the barrel is marked "- ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW - YORK U.S. AMERICA -". The left side of the frame is marked with the "COLT'S/PATENT" marking and the cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas naval scene and "COLTS PATENT No 724". The matching serial number is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The loading gate is numbered "742". Blade front sight and the rear sight is a integral notch on the breech end of the barrel. Fitted with a one-piece varnished walnut grip.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44 RF

Price Realized:

Lot 19

Cased Engraved Colt Pocket Navy Conversion Revolver

Only around 2,000 of these round barrel Pocket Navy revolvers with ejectors were manufactured around 1873-1875. This one was subsequently professionally engraved with Gustave Young style scroll engraving. The barrel has a pin front sight and the New York address on top. The cylinder has the stagecoach scene. The frame has the standard patent marking. The visible numbers match. "IE" has been added by the number on the trigger guard and butt. It comes with a hardwood case with "E.W.B." inscribed on a plaque on the lid, cartridge block holding five rounds of ammunition, L-shaped combination tool, and a key.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Short CF

Price Realized:

Very Scarce Colt-Burgess Lever Action Rifle with Special Order Part Octagon Barrel and Factory Letter

Lot 20

Colt-Burgess Lever Action Rifle with Part-Octagon Barrel

The Colt-Burgess rifles and carbines were only manufactured from July 1883 to November 1884, and production totaled just 6,403. They were very well-designed and certainly worthy contenders for the Winchester Model 1873, and in some ways was actually a better gun than any Winchester then had on the market, but they did not reach the sales levels of Winchester's already popular repeater. It has long been rumored that representatives from Colt and Winchester came to an agreement that Winchester would not release a revolver to compete against Colt if Colt backed out of the lever action market. It may also be that Colt was instead switching to the new Colt Lightning slide action rifles which came out in early 1884 and the company may have thought had more hope of displacing Winchester's dominance of the American repeating rifle market. The factory letter indicates this rifle and seven others with 25 1/2 inch barrels, blue finish, and wood stock in .44-40 as shipped to J.C. Grubb & Co. in Philadelphia, P.A., on March 12, 1884. The remarks also note the "subject rifle was furnished with a part-round/part-octagon barrel. Only 35 of the 2,556 Burgess rifles had part octagon barrels. Also includes a printed copy of a John P. Lovell's Sons advertisement for Burgess rifles offered "At Less than Cost to Manufacture." The rifle has a blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, "COLT'S PT. F.A. M.F.G. CO. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A." over the patent dates on top of the barrel, the Rampant Colt trademark on the left side of the frame, and smooth stock and forearm with steel cap and buttplate.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

First Year Colt Burgess Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with Factory Letter

Lot 21

Colt Burgess Lever Action Carbine with Factory Letter

The Colt Burgess rifles and carbines were only available from 1883 to around 1885, and only 6,403 were manufactured. It has long been rumored that Colt and Winchester came to an agreement that Colt exit the lever action market and Winchester would not release a revolver. There seems to be little other reason for Colt to have discontinued these fine repeating arms so quickly after they introduced them. Keep in mind that the improved Model 1886 and 1892 lever actions based on John Brownings designs had not yet been introduced by Winchester. The factory letter lists this carbine in .44-40 with a 20 inch barrel, blue finish, and wood stock when shipped to Wexell & DeGress in New York City on November 21, 1883, in a shipment of 20 guns of this type. It has a block style blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, the two-line address and patent marking ahead of the rear sight, 2016 London proofs on the right, the Rampant Colt trademark and a saddle ring on the left side of the frame, smooth stock and forearm, and a trapdoor compartment in the buttplate holding a three-piece cleaning rod.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 22

Colt Russian Contract Berdan Breech-Loading Rifle

Manufactured by Colt's Firearms Co. circa 1866-1870. The Colt Berdan rifle was designed by General Hiram Berdan who organized and led the famous 1st and 2nd U.S. Volunteer Sharpshooters (Berdan's Sharpshooters) during the Civil War. The Colt Berdan single-shot rifles featured a "trapdoor" breech system and were chambered for the .42 caliber (10.75x58R) bottleneck cartridge. This was the first military cartridge with an outside centerfire (Berdan) primer and bottle neck case. The rifle has a 32-1/2-inch barrel with thick point blade front sight on an iron base and adjustable folding leaf rear with elevation marked in yards. The barrel is designed to accommodate a socket bayonet and is secured by two screw-fastened bands. Sling swivels are mounted on the front barrel band and trigger guard. The barrel accepts a Springfield style socket bayonet. The rifle is fitted with a cleaning rod with short, pierced, cylindrical end. The one-piece trigger guard has a short finger spur. The rifle has a one-piece, straight grain American walnut stock. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped between the lower barrel band and the rear sight with a one-line Cyrillic legend which translates: "Colt's Firearms Factory Hartford America No." No serial number was ever applied to this rifle. The rifle has a full nickel-plated finish. The nickel-plated finish and lack of a serial number indicate that this rifle was manufactured by Colt as a display or presentation piece. Colt manufactured nearly 30,000 Berdan Breech-Loading rifles for Czarist Russia. These Russian contract Colt Berdan rifles were subject to heavy attrition and are very scarce in any condition.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 42 Berdan

Price Realized:

Lot 23

Nickel-Plated First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Colt Single Action Army revolver with Colt factory letter. The Colt letter describes the revolver as: "Caliber: .45/c", Barrel Length: 4 3/4 inches, and "Finish: Nickel". The type of stocks are not listed. The letter states that the revolver was shipped to J.F. Schmelzer & Sons in Kansas City, Kansas, on February 20, 1900. J.F. Schmelzer & Sons was a major western firearms dealer in Kansas City and Leavenworth, Kansas, who received 1,116 Colt Single Action Army revolvers from Colt between 1885 and 1895. The revolver has a full nickel-plated finish with niter-blue screws and casehardened cylinder pin. The two-piece black hard rubber grips are checkered and have the Rampant Colt trademark embossed in an oval at the top of the grip. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co./HARTFORD CT.U.S.A." The left side is roll-stamped with the caliber designation: "45 COLT." "45" is stamped on the underside of the barrel just ahead of the frame. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt "Three-Date/Two-Line'' patent markings followed by the encircled Rampant Colt trademark. The assembly number "166" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The serial umber, "192842", is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partial serial number "2842" is written faintly in pencil on the inside of both grips. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Colt

Price Realized:

Rare Union Metallic Cartridge Company Colt Single Action Army Cartridge Picture Box

Lot 24

Union Metallic Cartridge Company .45 Colt Cartridge Box

The upper label has a likeness of a Colt Single Action Army and notes that the cartridges are for "COLT'S NEW BREECH LOADING/ARMY REVOLVER/ADOPTED by the UNITED STATES ARMY for the CAVALRY SERVICE" as well as noting they were manufactured by the Union Metallic Cartridge Company "Under Hobb's Patents, Sept. 14, 1869, and April, 1884." The box itself is a blue and purple tartan style pattern. The side labels are red-orange, and the rear label notes that the cartridges are "expressly adapted to the .45 calibre/Colt's New Breech-Loading Army Revolver." The box has a piece of old newspaper within and no cartridges.

Price Realized:

Lot 25

Pre-World War II Colt Single Action Revolver

Manufactured in 1921. This revolver is accompanied by a Colt factory letter that describes it as "Caliber: .45/c, Barrel length: 5 1/2", Finish: Blue", and "Type of Stocks: Checkered Wood". It was part of a three gun shipment to the A. Baldwin Company in New Orleans, Louisiana, on October 14, 1922. The revolver has a checkered back strap that appears to be Colt factory work and could be explained by the repair or refinishing mark ("&") visible on right forward trigger guard. The barrel has the one-line Hartford address on top and "45 COLT" on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent marking followed by the Rampant Colt trademark. The left front trigger guard bow is stamped with a "3" assembler's mark over the Colt "Triangle/VP" proofmark. The full serial number is on the frame and on the left side of the trigger guard and back strap beneath the grip. The full serial number is also written in pencil on the inside of both grips. The partial serial number "61" is on the rear face of the cylinder. The assembly number "675" is on the loading gate and on the right rear of the frame beneath the grip. "Schindler" is neatly carved on the inside of the right grip.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 26

Colt First Generation Single Action Army Revolver

Manufactured in 1915 with standard markings and features. The including factory letter confirms 45/c, 5 1/2 inch, nickel finish (grips not listed) as well as shipment to J.H. Martin Little Rock, Arkansas (sold to J.I. Steech) on 18 August 1916.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Scarce Colt Bisley Model Single Action Revolver in .38 Colt Caliber

Lot 27

Colt Bisley Model SA Revolver in 38 Colt Caliber

Manufactured in 1904. This revolver is one of only 412 Bisley model revolvers reportedly chambered in the .38 Colt cartridge. The top of the barrel is marked with the one-line address and the left side "(BISLEY MODEL) .38 COLT." The left side of the frame is marked with the two-line, three patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "3899". A "S" inspection mark is stamped in the hammer well above the firing pin hole. The complete matching serial number is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. Blue finish on the barrel, cylinder, trigger guard and back strap, and the frame, hammer and loading gate are casehardened. The revolver has the distinctive Bisley Model grips with "humpbacked" profile, special back strap and trigger guard, 3/16-inch higher frame, curved wide spur hammer and long wide trigger. Fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Colt

Lot 28

Colt Bisley Model Single Action Revolver

Manufactured in 1900. This revolver is one of only 160 Bisley model revolvers chambered in .32 Colt. One-line Hartford address on top of the barrel, "(BISLEY MODEL) 32 COLT." on the left of the barrel, two-line patent dates and circled Rampant Colt on the left of the frame, and matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and unnumbered grips. The last three digits (146) of the serial number are stamped on the rear face of the cylinder. The included factory letter confirms the .32 Colt caliber with grips not listed as well as shipment to William Read & Sons in Boston, Massachusetts on 12 April 1900.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 Colt

Lot 29

Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Revolver in Scarce .32 WCF

Manufactured in 1899. Approximately 976 Bisley flattop target model revolvers were manufactured, with only 131 produced in 32 W.C.F. caliber, so surviving examples are scarce in any condition. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address, "(BISLEY MODEL) 32 W.C.F." is on the left side, and the two-line, three-patent date marking is on the left side of the frame followed by the circled Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers and "1045" assembly number on the loading gate. The revolver has the distinctive Bisley target grip with the special flattop target frame with a dovetailed target rear sight and adjustable German silver front sight. Blue finish with casehardened hammer and fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Exceptional First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 30

First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver, Letter

Manufactured in 1912. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top, "38 W.C.F." on the left side and "41" on the underside immediately in front of the frame. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent marking with a circled Rampant Colt. The left side of the trigger guard bow is stamped with the Colt "Triangle/VP" proofmark and a "W" assembler's mark. The serial number "322538" is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The inside of the grips are not serial numbered. The assembly number "778" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate and on the right rear end of the frame beneath the grips. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 4 3/4 inch barrel in .38-40 caliber, blue finish and type of stocks not listed when shipped to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. of Chicago on April 5, 1912.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Exceptionally Rare and Iconic, Newly Discovered, Factory Exhibition Panel Scene Engraved, Black Powder Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Lot 31

Factory Panel Scene Engraved Black Powder Colt SAA Revolver

This extraordinary and historically significant newly discovered Colt is one of very few known factory panel scene engraved SAAs. Similar examples have found their way into some of the most prestigious private collections owned by renowned Colt collectors such as Robert Lee, Raymond Vanyek, and Robert Hable. The extraordinary engraving mostly consists of masterfully executed foliate arabesque patterns on a very fine stippled background. Finely detailed engraved panel scenes are featured on both sides of the frame. The left side of the frame has a grizzly bear handgun hunting scene, and the right side of the frame has a buffalo handgun hunting scene. A third panel scene is engraved on top of the back strap. This vignette depicts a Native American warrior on horseback and wearing a full headdress. The fully engraved hammer has the foliate pattern as well as a grotesque mythical beast head on both sides, eight punch dots, which likely indicates 80 total hours of engraving, just below the spur checkering, and fine geometric line patterns and cross hatching on the back. The trigger guard shoulders feature engraved cross hatching, and an engraved wide ornate band appears on the barrel at the muzzle along with the foliate pattern surrounding the standard blade sight. The trigger guard serial number is inside an engraved banner. This 19th century high art SAA is an utter masterpiece! Pictures will do far better than words! The one-piece grip is finely checkered. Full nickel plating and niter blue screw heads, cylinder pin, and trigger. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder. A small group of factory panel scene engraved SAAs were part of Colt’s exhibit at the Centennial International Exhibition of 1876 held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 10 to November 10, 1876. It was America’s first official world’s fair, and it celebrated the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. Colt’s Centennial “wheel” display, which consisted of elaborately engraved SAAs at the center, was perhaps the factory’s most spectacular display in its history. The Centennial SAAs were later loaned to the Henry Folsom Co. of St. Louis and were returned to Colt in October 1877. Naming the engraver behind these masterpieces is up for debate, and contenders include the most notable master engravers of the period such as Gustave Young and Herman Ulrich. This SAA was manufactured in 1879, too late to be included in the famed Centennial exhibit. Nevertheless, this elaborately embellished revolver is most certainly equal to the known Centennial SAAs. Considering the notable similarities to the Centennial exhibition engravings and the chambering in .455 Eley, a popular cartridge within the British Empire, it is reasonable to conclude that the revolver was showcased at an exposition overseas. The Melbourne International Exhibition, for instance, opened on October 1, 1880, about a year after this revolver was manufactured, and closed on April 30, 1881. It was a World's Fair with representatives and exhibitors from around the world, including those from America’s firearms industry: Colt, Gatling Gun Co., Parker Bros., Providence Tool Co., Smith & Wesson, and Winchester. As reported in the April 30, 1881 edition of the Boston Daily Globe, Colt Patent Firearms Manufacturing Co. was one of many award winning American exhibitors at the 1880 World’s Fair. Exhibitors and displays were judged by juries of experts in each respective field, and Colt was awarded “second degree of merit” in the category of shotguns.

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 455 eley

Price Realized:

Exceptional, Iconic and Documented, Etched Panel Black Powder Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver with Factory Letter

Lot 32

Antique Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

This is a much sought after example of an exceptional acid etched panel blackpowder Colt Single Action Army revolver in 44-40 WCF. The accompanying factory letter (copy) lists this SAA with a 4 3/4 inch barrel in .44-40 caliber, nickel finish and hard rubber grips when shipped to Hartley & Graham of New York City on March 10, 1884. The barrel has the two-line address stamped on top and the etched panel "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" on the left side. This etched barrel panel marking was officially replaced by the Colt factory in the early 120,000 serial number range with the much easier to produce and larger roll-stamping. The left side of the frame is stamped with the three-line patent date markings, and the left side of the trigger guard is stamped "44 CF." The rear cylinder face is stamped with the letter "L." Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 33

Colt Bisley Model Single Action Revolver

The letter describes the revolver as caliber .32/20 with 7 1/2 inch barrel and blue finish. The type of stocks are not listed. The letter states that this revolver was one of four shipped from Colt to Schoverling, Daly & Gales in New York, New York, on August 31, 1907. The revolver has the distinctive Bisley hunch-back back strap and grip profile, special wide spur hammer and large trigger guard bow. The barrel, ejector housing cylinder, trigger guard and back strap have the Colt high polish commercial blue finish. The frame, loading gate and hammer are color casehardened with fiery case colors. The trigger and frame screws are niter blue. The revolver has two-piece black checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt trademark embossed in an oval at the top. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped: "(BISLEY MODEL) .32 W.C.F.", and the top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." in one-line. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt three-date/two-line patent marking followed by the encircled Rampant Colt trademark. The assembly number "1466" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The Colt "Triangle/VP" proofmark is stamped on the left front trigger guard bow, and a "6" assembler's mark is stamped on the left rear. The full serial number is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 32-20 WCF

Excellent Colt "Sheriff's" Model 1877 Lightning Double Action Ejectorless Revolver with Picture Box

Lot 34

Colt Sheriff's Model 1877 Lightning Revolver with Picture Box

Offered here is a desirable ejectorless variation of the Colt Model 1877 Lightning revolver as manufactured in 1893. The barrel is stamped with the caliber designation on the left side and the two-line Hartford address on top. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking followed by a circled Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The right grip panel is numbered 89?, clearly not the serial number (944458) of revolver. Includes period (no visible number) Colt Model 1877 picture box featuring end labels correctly listing caliber, barrel length and "without ejector."

Has Box

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 LC

Price Realized:

Lot 35

Colt Model 1878 Sheriff's Model Double Action Revolver

Manufactured in 1905. The barrel is marked with the two-line Hartford address on top and "45 COLT" on the left side. The left side of the frame features a small circled Rampant Colt mark just forward of the grip. The finely checkered hammer, smooth trigger and small screw heads all have a brilliant nitre blue finish. Fitted with checkered hard rubber Rampant Colt grips. The loading gate is marked with assembly number "2" as is the left side of the grip frame. The cylinder face is marked "R.A.C.".

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Desirable Antique Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Single Action Army Revolver in Extremely Rare .32-44 S&W Caliber with Factory Letter

Lot 36

Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model .32-44 S&W Revolver

Manufactured in 1898. This is one of only 976 Bisley flattop target revolvers manufactured by Colt between 1894 and 1914, and only one of 17 of this model reportedly chambered in .32-44 S&W cartridge, one of the rarest calibers for this variation. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver as chambered in .32-44 caliber (barrel length illegible in the factory ledger), blue finish and hard rubber grips when shipped to Montgomery Ward & Co., Chicago, Illinois, on December 29, 1898. The barrel is stamped with the one-line Hartford address on top and "(BISLEY MODEL) FOR 32-44 S & W CTG." on the left side. The left side of the frame is stamped with the two-line patent dates marking followed by a circled Rampant Colt. The revolver has a replacement adjustable blade front sight, a dovetailed notched rear target sight and Rampant Colt embossed checkered hard rubber grips. Matching full serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The rear cylinder face has the matching last three digits ("319") of the serial number. The revolver correctly has an all blue finish with the exception of the casehardened hammer.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32-44SW

Price Realized:

Desirable Colt Bisley Model Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Lot 37

Colt Bisley Model Frontier Six Shooter SAA Revolver

Manufactured in 1909. The top of the desirable 7 1/2 inch barrel is marked with the one-line Hartford address, and "(BISLEY MODEL)/COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" is on the left side. The two-line, three patent date markings is on the left side of the frame followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The upper left front of the trigger guard is marked with the Colt triangle "VP" proof with "W" at the rear. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap, and the assembly number "723" is marked on the loading gate. The partial serial number "8467" is scratched into the inside of both grip panels. Casehardened hammer and frame with blue remaining parts, standard blade front and frame notch rear sights, and fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40

Price Realized:

Lot 38

Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver

Manufactured in 1902. The barrel is marked with the two-line Hartford address on top and "38 W.C.F." on the left side. Fitted with fixed blade and notch sights and a full length ejector housing. The left side of the frame is marked with a small, circled Rampant Colt logo. The checkered hammer, smooth trigger and screws are all finished in a brilliant nitre blue. Fitted with checkered Rampant Colt grip. The cylinder is numbered to the frame, and the frame and loading gate are both marked with assembly number "200".

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 39

Colt Model 1877 Lightning Double Action Revolver

This is a very fine example of a Colt Model 1877 Double Action revolver with attractive grips. This fine revolver has the four inch barrel with an ejector on the side with the "bullseye" ejector rod head. The top of the barrel has the standard short two line Hartford barrel address with "COLT. D.A. 38" on the left side and the three-line, three-patent dates on the left side of the frame followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The loading gate is marked with the assembly number "8". Fitted with blade front and frame notch rear sights. It has a blued finish on the metal parts with a color casehardened frame.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 40

Colt Model 1877 Sheriffs Model Double Action Revolver

This is a very fine example of a scarce 2 1/2 inch barrel Colt 1877 DA ejectorless sheriffs model DA revolver. This revolver was manufactured in 1880 and is accompanied by a Colt factory letter verifying its configuration and identifying it as shipped to Hartley & Graham of New York in March 1880. The top of the barrel has the standard two-line markings of "COLTS' PT. F.A. MFG. Co./HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.", and the side of the barrel has the rare etched barrel panel markings of "COLT D.A.38". The left side of the frame has the standard Colt three line patent dates with caliber markings ".38 CAL" stamped on the rear of the trigger guard bow. The pistol has been nickel plated, and it is fitted with a set of checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top of each grip. It is correctly marked with the matching serial number on the frame, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder, and the loading gate has assembly number "453". It has nitre blued action screws and cylinder pin.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 41

Colt Model 1877 Sheriffs Double Action Revolver

This is a very fine example of a Colt Model 1877 sheriffs Double Action revolvers that was manufactured in 1888. As noted this revolver itself has the desirable 3 1/2 inch, ejector less barrel with the "acid etched" barrel panel caliber markings on the left side with the top marked with the slightly larger Colt factory two-line address. The left side of the frame has the three-line/three-patent dates, with no Colt logo. It has an all blued finish with a color casehardened frame. It has a nickel plated finish with niter blue small parts. It has the small round blade front and frame groove rear sight. The frame, trigger guard and back strap have matching serial numbers and the cylinder is unnumbered. The loading gate is marked with a partial assembly number "202". Accompanied by a survey sheet from Don Wilkerson listing the features and markings of the revolver.

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 long Colt

Price Realized:

Iconic and Spectacular Special Order Near Mint Factory Engraved and Inscribed First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Relief Carved Steer Head Grip and Matching F.H.R. Embossed Heiser Tooled Leather Holster Rig

Lot 42

Factory Engraved-Inscribed 1st Gen. Colt SAA Revolver

The accompanying factory letter confirms the 5 1/2 inch barrel in .38-40 caliber, blue finish, ivory grips (carving not listed but is most certainly factory) and factory engraving including the "F.H.R." initials on the trigger guard. It was shipped on May 14, 1925 to Harry Levy Hardware Co. (address unavailable). The engraving consists of floral scrollwork and blossoms covering 80% of the surface. Scrollwork surrounds the "F.H.R." initials on the trigger guard. The engraving was probably executed by Wilbur Glahn who was Colt's master engraver from 1919 to 1950. The revolver has standard Colt barrel and frame markings. The grips have silver Rampant Colt medallions, and the right panel has a wonderful relief carved steer head. The carving is a near match to known Colt factory steer head grips documented in R.L. Wilson's "The Book of Colt Engraving" (see pages 298-299, 302-305, and 307). Matching assembly number "298" is on the loading gate and back of the frame. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, both grip straps under the right grip panel and cylinder ("35"). Comes with a Heiser floral tooled holster rig. Like the revolver, the cartridge belt and open top/toe holster have "F.H.R." initials. The holster is also decorated with rivets. Factory engraved SAA revolvers are rare and highly desirable. Only about 1,500 of the 357,859 SAA revolvers manufactured between 1873 and 1940 were factory engraving.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 WCF

Price Realized:

Lot 43

Colt Sheriff's Model 1878 Double Action Ejectorless Revolver

Manufactured in 1905 with a desirable ejectorless 4 inch barrel. The rear cylinder face has the number "952." Matching assembly number "25" on the grip frame and loading gate.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Etched Panel Colt Model 1877 Lightning "Sheriff's Model" Double Action Revolver

Lot 44

Colt Model 1877 Lightning Sheriff's Model Revolver

Manufactured in 1885 with a round blade front sight, "COLT D.A. 38" in an etched panel on the left side of the barrel, the two-line address on top of the barrel, standard three-line patent marking on the frame, "A" on the left side of the trigger guard at the rear, assembly number "702" on the loading gate, checkered one piece rosewood grip, and matching serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 45

Antique Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver

Manufactured in 1894. The barrel is marked with the two-line Hartford address on top and "45 COLT." on the left side. Fitted with fixed blade and frame notch sights and a full length ejector housing. The left side of the frame is marked with a small, circled Rampant Colt logo. The checkered hammer, smooth trigger and screws are all finished in a brilliant nitre blue. Fitted with checkered Rampant Colt grips. The cylinder is numbered to the frame.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 45 LC

Price Realized:

Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Double Action Revolver with West & Prickett Inscribed Pearl Grips

Lot 46

Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Revolver with Pearl Grips

Manufactured in 1882. It has a round blade front sight, "COLT D.A. 41" in an etched panel on the left side of the barrel, the two-line address on top, the "bullseye" ejector rod button, the three-line patent marking on the left side of the frame, "41 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, matching serial numbers, the assembly number "843" on the loading gate, and a few small single letter markings. The left grip is inscribed "West & Prickett" in ornate script with some curved line accents and filled with black enamel. West & Prickett was a bank formed in Edwardsville, Illinois, near St. Louis by Edward M. West (1814-1887) and Civil War veteran Major William Russell Prickett (1836-1922), West's son-in-law, on January 1, 1868. After West died on October 31, 1887, Prickett and his son, Edward I. (1860-1926), continued the business as W.R. Prickett & Co., and from January 1896 to the present it has been known as The Bank of Edwardsville. These name changes and the date of manufacture imply the grips would have been inscribed in 1882-1887 perhaps by a retailer. During the Civil War, Prickett served in the 150th Infantry as a major of the regiment.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 41 Long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 47

Colt Model 1877 Sheriff's Model Double Action Revolver

This revolver has an early serial number indicating manufacture in 1878. The top of the barrel has the slightly longer, two-line markings of 'COLTS' PT. F.A. MFG. Co./HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.," and the side of the barrel is marked with the rare and desirable "COLT D. A.38" etched panel marking. The left side of the frame has the standard Colt three-line patent marking, and the rear of the trigger guard is marked ".38 CAL". The revolver has a nickel plated primary finish and niter blue hammer, trigger, action screws and cylinder pin. It is fitted with a checkered hard rubber grip with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top of each side. It is correctly marked with the matching serial number on the frame, trigger guard and back strap, and the back of the cylinder is numbered "55".

Documentation

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 38 long Colt

Price Realized:

Lot 48

Colt Frontier Six Shooter Single Action Army Revolver

Colt Single Action Army revolver manufactured circa 1937 with desirable "Colt Frontier Six Shooter" barrel marking. The revolver has the Colt commercial blue finish on the barrel, ejector housing cylinder, trigger guard and back strap. The frame and loading gate are color casehardened. The trigger has a nitre blue finish and the hammer is blued with polished sides. The revolver has two-piece, black, checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt trademark embossed in an oval. The hammer spur has borderless knurling. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped with the model designation: "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER .44/40". This marking was introduced in 1919 and was utilized into the 355,900 serial number range. This revolver is one of the very last Colt Single Actions manufactured with the famous "Colt Frontier Six Shooter" markings. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." in one line. The left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the Colt three-date/two-line patent marking followed by the Rampant Colt trademark. The left front trigger guard bow is stamped with a "4" assembler's mark above the Colt "Triangle/VP" proofmark. The serial number, "355944", is stamped on the bottom of the frame, the right side of the back strap and right side of the trigger guard beneath the grip. "355944" is scratched on the inside of both grips. All of the visible serial numbers match. The assembly number "620" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate and on the end of the right side of the frame beneath the grip.

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 44-40 WCF

Price Realized:

Exceptional, Rare, and Historic Deluxe Colt Lightning Slide Action Baby Carbine Factory Inscribed to Pioneer Carrie A. Strahorn from Her Husband Robert E. Strahorn, "Last of the Great Scouts"

Lot 49

Historic Strahorn Deluxe Colt Lightning Baby Carbine

This deluxe Colt Lighting Slide Action carbine was manufactured in 1888. It is one of the very rare Colt Lightning Baby carbines chambered for the .32 CLMR cartridge (.32 W.C.F) and has a special order, fancy grain walnut stock and forearm with checkering panels and a high polish "piano" finish. The left side of the frame is factory inscribed: "Carrie A. Strahorn/1888/Christmas/from/R.E.S." in old English letters indicating the rifle was given to her by her husband Robert E. Strahorn. Robert Edmund Strahorn (1852-1944), called "Pard" by his wife, was a war correspondent, publicist, and propagandist working with the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Denver News, the Rocky Mountain News, and Union Pacific Railroad. He was an important correspondent during the Great Sioux War of 1876 giving important accounts of the various battles he witnessed and was nearby when Custer and his men were killed. Strahorn actually participated in Colonel Joseph J. Reynolds' charge on the Powder River village on March 17, 1876, and reportedly screamed so loud during the charge that his voice never fully recovered. General George Cook said, "Strahorn worked as well with his rifle as with his pen." His writing helped shape public perception of the West in the late 19th century and encouraged settlement that remains relevant today. He married Carrie Adell Green "Dell" Strahorn (1852-1925) on September 19, 1877. One of the conditions for him accepting Jay Gould's offer of a position with the Union Pacific Railroad shortly after the marriage was that Mrs. Strahorn would be allowed to accompany him wherever he should go, and the two travelled throughout the West along with Hawaii and Alaska by stage, train, steamboat, horseback, and pack train. Mrs. Strahorn recorded their adventures and published them in the two volume set "Fifteen Thousand Miles by Stage" in 1911 which includes artwork by their friend and beloved western artist Charles Marion Russell. The dedication reads "This book is lovingly dedicated to my dear husband Robert E. Strahorn whose constant chum and companion it has been my greatest joy to be for more than thirty years in the conquering of the wilderness." The Stahorns were influential in the development and settlement of the West, and Mr. Strahorn was the founder of the North Coast Railroad and one of the founders and trustees of the College of Idaho. They both died in San Francisco. She preceded him, and upon her death he wrote, "Here intervened the first real crushing, heartrending sorrow of my life, the sudden death of my deeply loved, superb wife, who had been my inseparable companion, my greatest inspiration and staunchest support for nearly fifty years. The earth, which at times seemed only dangerously slipping before, was now indeed gone from under. How attempt to picture the glory surrounding, permeating, and emitting from such angelic womankind?" Upon his death, his Oakland Tribune's obituary was headlined "Empire Builder." He along with "Buffalo Bill" Cody and "Captain Jack" Crawford were known as the "Old Scouts." Given the other two both died in 1917, Strahorn was the "Last of the Old Scouts." For more information look into the writings of the Strahorns as well as "Robert E. Strahorn, Propagandist for the West" by Oliver Knight in "The Pacific Northwest Quarterly." The rifle has the Colt commercial blue finish on major components with fire blue loading gate and small components. The hammer is color casehardened. The 20 inch round lightweight barrel has the block carbine front sight and a carbine folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. A staple mounted saddle ring is located on the left side of the frame. The stock has a carbine style buttplate and is inlaid with a round silver plate on the underside near the end of the checkered panel on the wrist. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG.CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A./ELLIOT'S PATENTS MAY 29. 1883. SEPT. 18. 1883." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. "32 Cal." is boldly stamped on the left side of the barrel just ahead of the frame. The Rampant Colt trademark usually roll-stamped on the left side of the frame is located on the right side. The serial number "30092" is stamped on the lower tang behind the trigger. A Lightning Side Action carbine chambered for the .32 CLMR cartridge and with deluxe, checkered stock and forearm is very rare. The combination of these rare features with a factory inscription make this Lightning carbine unique.

Antique

Caliber / Gauge: 32 WCF

Price Realized:

Exceptional Individual Shipped First Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Desirable Checkered Wood Grips in Scarce .38 Long Colt with Factory Letter

Lot 50

1st Generation Colt Single Action Army .38 LC Revolver, Letter

This is one of only 1,011 Single Action Army Revolvers chambered in .38 Colt as manufactured up to 1914; a total of 2,376 chambered in that caliber throughout production. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 7 1/2 inch barrel in .38 Colt caliber, blue finish and "checkered wood" stocks when shipped to R.S. Tait (address unavailable) on April 10, 1914. The barrel is marked "38 COLT" on the left side, and the one-line Hartford address is on the top. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped with the number "1" and the Colt "VP" triangle proof. Matching assembly numbers are on the loading gate and back of the frame. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The highly desirable checkered walnut grips have Rampant Colt medallions.

Documentation

Curio and Relic

Caliber / Gauge: 38 LC

Price Realized:

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