June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
The Kopek letter shows no National Archive record and further states this revolver is all original with the exception of an 1890's replacement hammer with no "HN" inspection stamp. This hammer was obviously replaced after authentication as the left side of the hammer does bear an "HN" stamp. You will find matching serial numbers on barrel, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. "HN" can be found stamped on barrel, frame, trigger guard, side of cylinder, left side of hammer, and backstrap. One piece walnut grips have an 1878 date on left side with inspector stamp "JEG" in script for John E. Greer and right grip panel is stamped "HN" for Henry Nettleton. Grips are in excellent condition, revarnished, with a chip on right panel, now shy to metal. This revolver has seen light, obvious use. Barrel retains approximately 70% original factory bright blue blending with brown patina. Ejector rod housing has blue in recess. Cylinder retains approximately 30% blue on flats with the majority of blue in flutes. Frame retains approximately 30% case colors, some quite bright. Traces of blue on trigger guard. Straps are grey patina. Screw heads are basically straight with generous amounts of fire blue present. Indexes and locks up tight as new. Bore is strong and bright. This is definitely one of the better condition Nettleton inspected early Colt revolvers with early patent date and U.S. stamp on left side.