July 13-15, 2021 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/13/2021
Standard configuration Detective Special double action revolver manufactured by Colt in 1950. Left side of barrel is stamped "DETECTIVE SPEC./ .32 COLT N. P. CTG." with Colt's 2-line address on the right. Left side of frame bears the Rampant Colt logo and "VP" proof. Rear grip strap is engraved "HARRY X. KELLY". Features include a dual tone nickel finish, 2" barrel, ramp front sight, notched rear sight, serrated top strap, grooved hammer, grooved trigger, and 2-piece Mother of Pearl grips. Accompanying this example is a Colt factory letter indicating that this revolver was sent in a shipment of 10 other Detective Specials to Edward K. Tryon Company in Philadelphia, PA on March 29th, 1950. Additional documents include several scans of newspaper articles and online references detailing Harry Xing Kelly's career as a Steamship Executive, as well as his obituary and photograph. CONDITION: Very good overall, with metal components retaining the vast majority of their factory nickel finish, showing some superficial marks from handling and storage as well as several concentrated areas of oxidation beneath the grips. Mirror bore, retaining well defined lands and grooves throughout. Mother of Pearl grips show a few minor nicks and chips, but are otherwise fine. MLW
Paperwork
Factory Letter, Info