April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
Factory documented by a Colt Archives letter dated April 17th, 2003 this Colt Frontier Six Shooter, serial number 129422, was chambered for .44-40 with 7-1/2" barrel finished nickel with carved "Mexican Eagle Motif" Mother of Pearl grips and factory engraved. Shipped to Ketelson & Degetau, El Paso, Texas on May 14th, 1889 in a two gun shipment. This black powder framed etched panel single action is the "sister" gun to serial number 129420 attributed by serial number and picture in R.L. Wilson's book "Colt Pistols 1836....1976" on page 192. The gun is currently in a complete state of restoration and is currently silver plated. Under detailed examination and minor disassembly it is found that matching serial numbers are found on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap. No markings are observed on barrel beneath ejector housing, side of trigger guard or on grip frame beneath grips. an assembly number (803) is observed on interior of loading gate. All serial numbers have been re-stamped during period of restoration. During the restoration liberties were taken in the engraving pattern with the addition of a 1-3/4" rope pattern with dot punch background on barrel sides as well as the omission of the chiseled border in the lower gullet of the frame beneath the cylinder pin. The Mother of Pearl grips are certainly period with the Mexican snake and eagle motif carved on the right side but do not match its "sister gun" featured in the previous picture listed in R.L. Wilson's book on page 192. CONDITION: Very fine as fully restored. The silver plated finish is fully intact and the engraving is skillfully executed. The Mother of Pearl grips are period to manufacture but are well worn with numerous small chips at edges and a 1/4" leaf chip at top corner of right grip. The carving is worn and not well defined as well as the grips are undersized with worn corners. The bore is excellent with sharp rifling and the presence of silver plating in the bore is a testament to its recent restoration. The chambers are consistent with the bore including the presence of silver plate on its interior. The action is very smooth and crisp with solid lock-up. The "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" etched panel is very pronounced and is a faithful recreation of the original marking. A very attractive and well documented antique Texas associated revolver. CORRECTION: Estimate amended.
Model
Frontier Six Shooter
Paperwork
Binder of Provenance