October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/23/2019
All blue finish with 4" barrel. Integral half moon front sight and two line address with model and caliber marking on the left side. Mounted with beautiful Colt silver medallion two piece smooth pearl grips inscribed on the left side “EAF”. Revolver is beautifully engraved, probably by Wilbur Glahn Engraving, consists of about 60% coverage fine foliate arabesque patterns with pearled background and fine border line engraving around rear sides of the frame. Sides of the top strap are engraved in leaf and vine patterns. Foliate arabesque patterns extend over both sides of the barrel, onto the top strap, rear edge of the frame, backstrap and trigger guard with Mr. Glahn’s distinctive “V” on the butt. Cylinder is engraved to match with fine line borders around the flutes. Accompanied by its original blue velvet lined, black Moroccan leather covered casing which is form fitted in the bottom for the revolver. Top of the case is inlaid with a 3-3/4" x 2-1/2" silver plated brass plaque engraved “TO / IMPERIAL POTENTATE / ESTEN A. FLETCHER / FROM / THE NOBILITY OF / SPHINX TEMPLE / AAONMS / HARTFORD, CONN. JUNE 10, 1931 / MERTON W. BASSETT / POTENTATE”. Esten Fletcher (1864-1941) was elected Imperial Potentate of the Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine June 1930 for a one year term into June 1931, which coincides with the date on the presentation plaque. Mr. Fletcher was active in local politics and charities and was even considered as a candidate for national politics, which he apparently declined. He was very active in the Masonic order, rising to the 33rd degree to which very few attain or even pursue. In order to become a 33rd degree Mason one must have impeccable character and a history of service, not only to the Masonic order but to the local community. Also accompanied by a Colt factory letter identifying this revolver in caliber .38 with 4" barrel, blue finish, type of stock is not listed, factory engraved and shipped to Sphinx Temple, Hartford, Connecticut on June 19th, 1931 in a one gun shipment, under factory order 3275, delivered by “Mr. Penfield”. PROVENANCE: Esten A. Fletcher. CONDITION: Extremely fine plus, probably unfired. Overall retains virtually 100% of its crisp original factory blue with no visible flaws. Grips are equally new. Case shows nicks and scratches on the outside and retains strong original black finish. Interior is lightly faded inside the lid and moderately faded with light soil in the bottom. TDW
Model
Police Positive Special