4172

RARE COLT NAVY GRIPPED 1871-72 OPEN-TOP

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:7,750.00 USD Estimated At:15,500.00 - 20,000.00 USD
RARE COLT NAVY GRIPPED 1871-72 OPEN-TOP
.42 STETSON CAL. S# 179, manufactured for only 18 months between February 1872 & June 1873, the 1872 Open-top Colt was a transitional model revolver which bridged the gap between the Richards Mason Conversion, & the new solid frame Colt Peacemaker. Total production did not exceed 7000, making it one of the rarest of all Colts. This early example, Serial #179, is one of the few that letters from Colt as a ".42 STETSON" Caliber, as opposed to .44 R.F. This gun is pictured on page 237 of Sutherland & Wilson's "THE BOOK OF COLT FIREARMS" as an example of one manufactured w/ the rare 1851 Navy size grips. It is believed that only about 425 do not have the larger 1860 Army size grips. In addition, the frame has the earlier "COLTS PATENT" stamp, rather than the patent dates themselves. The unrebated cylinder retains approximately 50% of the Naval engagement battle scene & all serial numbered parts are original & matching. All markings are clear & crisp. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Colt factory letter and copy of page 237of "The Book of Colt Firearms". CONDITION: overall, metal surfaces are very good to excellent, w/ the bbl retaining 20% - 40% original blue, the balance drifting to a pleasing brown patina. The bore is near excellent w/ only minor corrosion. The action is tight, & the one-piece walnut grips retain 70% original varnish showing only minor wear. All screw heads are good & show traces of original finish. Overall, this gun is in near excellent original condition, does not show hard use, and is a very early example of its type. (01-18683). ANTIQUE. $15,500-20,000.