May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
The Union Pacific Railroad and Central Pacific were the two railroads that merged to create the first transcontinental railroad in 1869. With the merging, trains became ideal targets for bandits. This gun was issued to payroll guards on the Union Pacific Railroad to protect against robberies, such as those orchestrated by the infamous Sam Bass. It is a standard blue revolver with one piece walnut grips that displays all matching numbers, a one line Colt New York barrel address, an 1871-72 Colt two line patent legend on left side of frame, and engraved "UPRR EXPRESS" on back strap. The walnut grips are hand carved "CH" on right panel. Many of these ended up in Texas border towns, and were modified with nickel plating and by trimming the barrel length. CONDITION: Very good. There appears to be no original finish remaining, and is now a soft, smooth patina with sharp legends. The action was repaired and now indexes and locks up correctly. The grips are a bit shy to metal and have a chip at right forward base. The rifling is strong and clean. A scarce and historical Colt.