December 16, 17, & 18, 2020 Field & Range Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/16/2020
Manufactured in 1932, this Colt New Service revolver features all blue finish, and it mounted with replacement 2 piece stag grips. The 6" tapered barrel features a fixed blade front sight and a notched rear sight with a serrated top strap. Trigger and hammer are checkered. The left side of the barrel is marked "NEW SERVICE 38 SPECIAL", with Colt's 2 line address across the top. The left side of the frame is marked with the Rampant Colt logo. This New Service is unique, in that it is marked "N.Y. STATE CONS. DEPT." on the left side of the frame, beneath the grip panel, and "No. 77" on the butt. These markings indicate that this revolver was purchased in 1932 by the state of New York for their Conservation Department. 1932 marks an important year for New York's Conservation Department, as this was the first time that the state of New York purchased new uniforms and firearms for their Conservation Department with state funds. CONDITION: Metal components retain most of their original factory blue finish, exhibiting wear and thinning all around from handling and use. Grip straps and underside of frame retain traces of their original factory blue finish, with the balancing turning a pleasing brown patina. Barrel and cylinder crane exhibit wear and thinning, which also shows through to the same pleasing brown patina. The left side of the frame bares an indentation to the front of the trigger guard, partially obliterating the factory "VP" proof. Mirror bore with well defined lands and grooves throughout. 2 piece stag grips are fine, showing few minor handling or storage marks. A very unique and historically significant revolver, that is an important piece of the New York Conservation Department's history. -MLW-