December 6-8, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2023
Per the included factory letter, this revolver shipped as a 5 - 1/2" nickel gun in .32 Rifle Cartridge (.32-20) with rubber grips and factory engraving, sent to H.M. Morse's Sons, Pueblo, Colorado, on June 28th, 1888, in a shipment of 1. Morse is particularly noted as a Western pioneer who eventually settled in Pueblo after globe trotting, where he opened a gun store and was a noted collector. This revolver is in the same configuration as when it shipped, and the work is undoubtedly that of Helfricht or his shop, with approximately B class coverage of well cut acanthus scroll on a punch dot background, dressed at the edges with rocker engraving, and accented with florals and geometrics, including the iconic sunburst on recoil shield and shell motif on backstrap. Typical features include kidney shaped ejector rod, blackpowder frame, 3-line patent on left side of frame, caliber marking on left side of trigger guard, blade front sight with notch rear sight. 2 piece grips with raised American eagles and encircled Rampant Colts at top. Ejector rod housing retained by stud and screw, barrel marked "32" on base. Housed in a Colt maroon fliptop box, unnumbered and devoid of labels. PROVENANCE: Richard "Dick" Burdick collection. CONDITION: Excellent, retaining the majority of the Colt factory nickel, with appropriate distension about the caliber proof from application of stamp. Nickel flaking is largely confined to sharp edges, but some areas are scattered about the gun. Flashes of nitre bluing retained on screws, but restrained to protected areas. Grips are very good with some minor handling marks and abrasions, but no chips or cracks. Action is fine with all 4 Colt clicks, bore has good visible rifling, with frosting and pitting throughout. Box is very good with some peeling and rubs through from age, but intact and solid. This is a good example of a Western shipped gun with excellent engraving.