May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
The back strap of this 1870s Colt conversion is stamped "John W. Olinger". John was the brother of the infamous Bob Olinger who was shot by Billy the Kid on April 28, 1881. John was appointed deputy, along with his brother Bob, to fight the Regulators during the Lincoln County war against McSween and Billy the Kid. John also fought in the Lincoln County War as a member of the outlaw gang, the Seven Rivers Warriors. The Lincoln County War is legendary in the history of the Old West with the same notoriety of the OK Corral. Accompanying documents include a John Wallace Olinger biography as well as a notarized and signed statement regarding the gun from a descendant dated 1933 which states: "My statement, my grate (sic) uncle Bill Johnson for who I am named, was partner with Deputy Sheriff John W. Olinger. When my G. uncle got shot by Hank Beckwith, Olinger shot Beckwith. Olinger gave his Colt #5093 and badge to my gradpa (sic) because John got arrested. The gun and badge was past (sic) down to me.” Signed Billy Johnson. The notarized signature is dated 22 May 1933 with the notary’s seal. Along with this gun is included a Deputy Sheriff badge with his name stamped on back. The badge is housed in an early jeweler case with "JOHN WALLACE OLINGER" in gold print. The stamps on both gun and badge were done one letter at a time. The revolver comes with an old flap holster along with a Red Head brand cartridge belt. Research indicates the Red Head brand was first used in 1865 by brothers George and Joe O' Brian. The gun itself is a Colt 3 - 1/2" without ejector that was offered from 1873-1880. All matching serial numbers with exception to the wedge. Grips are one piece walnut with brass straps. Barrel has Colt two line address with two line patent date on left side of frame. The cylinder has the stage coach roll die scene. CONDITION: Very good. Brass is toned. All metal is grey patina. Grips are shy to metal. Roll die scene is partially visible. Action works correctly. Bore is well defined but does have some abrasion. Well documented piece of history from the Lincoln County Wars and Billy the Kid!
Accessories
Holster, Belt, Badge
Paperwork
John W. Olinger Research, 1937 Notarized Letter