October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
A very unique and intriguing Colt Single Action with "US" marked frame and commercial caliber, markings on trigger guard. The unique background of these guns is explained by a letter from John Kopec as being a commercial contract for Prussia. These guns were shipped and then returned to Colt due to a confusion about caliber. The "US" marking is explained by Kopec as all these early production guns were US marked while in their soft configuration but a extremely limited amount of guns (40) were pulled from the US Government allotment for special sale to Prussia. These guns were shipped through J.P. Moore & Sons, who acted as a Colt Agent. Little is known about the history of the guns after rejection by Prussia some are believed to have gone to Wilkerson & Hoyt in London and some obviously made it back to the United States. This Cavalry configuration Colt Single Action was reviewed and inspected by Mr. Kopec and his findings are as follows. The barrel has been replaced with an 1880 period barrel with no serial number. The ejector assembly is a the 3rd variation from the 1880's. The hammer is a a 1900's pattern. The mainspring is a later pattern with roller groove. The grips appear original however were not removed for inspection. The back strap has been professionally modified for additional hammer travel to allow for sear wear from use. The loading gate has a different assembly number than the frame. CONDITION. Good as found with the revolver remaining a dove grey finish and appears uncleaned or polished. The grips are full sized and well fitting with slight material loss at corners. The action is crisp and properly fitting.The bore is dark with visible rifling. This is a very unusual Civilian/Foreign Contract Colt with a truly amazing history. TDW