October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2018
According to the factory letter, this handgun was shipped August 28th, 1891 with nickel finish, 4-1/2" barrel in .38 caliber, pearl grips, factory engraved and shipped to W.F. Coole & Co. The main Colt factory engraver was Cuno Helfricht (1871-1921) who worked his entire career for Colt as a contract engraver with his team/shop of up to six engravers. In addition, L.D. Nimschke (1850-1900) was also doing contract engraving for Colt during the period of manufacture. It remains in original factory configuration featuring nearly full coverage engraving. CONDITION: The back of the hammer retains virtually all of the Colt fire blue finish with generous amounts on top of hammer. Generous amounts of Colt fire blue still remains on majority of screws. The cylinder pin head has been marred from use with pliers and could easily be replaced. Overall, this revolver retains 98% or better of the original nickel finish. Pearl grips are near mint with no visible chips. Revolver operates correctly and locks up tight both single and double action. Factory legends are bold. Sight has never been filed. Bore retains sharp lands with bright grooves. Aside from the cylinder pin, balance of firearm is in near mint condition, showing only light wear, most notably on face of trigger. A stunning specimen and great example of Colt master engraving.