Beschreibung:

Coveted by Colt collectors and the centerpiece of the most advanced collections of Colt firearms is the "Pinch Frame" Single Action Army Revolver. Offered in this lot is serial number 58. Manufactured prior to July 1873 this rare revolver was 1 of 9 in the first commercial shipment of Colt Single Action Army revolvers from Colt to Schuyler Hartley & Graham on September 2, 1873. Included in this historic first shipment were serial numbers 31, 33, 41, 43, 50, 51, 58, 59, and 60, all believed to have been "Pinch Frame" guns. Originally intended for the U.S. Military, the "Pinched Frame" sighting feature was abandoned by the U.S. Ordnance Department, resulting from a July 22, 1873 letter written by Ordnance Inspector, Captain J.R. Edie. Captain Edie recommended that an open flute on the revolver top strap offered a superior sighting picture. The total number of "Pinch Frames" manufactured is unknown however is believed to be around 100 or less. These are the first Single Action Army revolvers manufactured by Colt and all were sold commercially. These first-run single action revolvers have unique features found only on their type. Serial number 58 exhibits all those features being 100% authentic and original in all respects. The first and most iconic feature being the pinched area located at the top strap flute forming a rear sight. Small square bolt locks without approaches on the cylinder. Serial number 58 found on the front face of the cylinder between 2 chambers. Serial number 58 is fully visible on barrel without removing the ejector housing. 1st style ejector housing with squared-off front, inside locating lug, and "bullseye" ejector rod. 2-line patent dates "SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 25, 1871" marked on left side of frame. 7 - 1/2" barrel with German silver front sight. Italic barrel address with no die breaks, fully visible "Co.". No "Bin" or "Assembly" numbers found on the loading gate or bottom of frame. Small size "mounting ears" on backstrap to frame. Long outlined knurl on hammer spur. Pronounced undercut at the recoil shield frame juncture. Larger exposed frame area, with serial number 58 forward of trigger guard. Colt inspector mark "C" found inside hammer slot. Colt inspector mark "C" found on barrel, under ejector housing at threaded mounting hole. No threaded boss for ejector housing mounting screw. Small index mark found on top of barrel. Finished blue with case hardened frame and hammer. 1-piece walnut stocks. Accompanying this historic revolver is a 4-page handwritten letter from well known Colt authority and co-author of the definitive book "A STUDY OF THE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER" Ron Graham dated November 1, 2007. In this letter Mr. Graham outlines the characteristics and authenticity of serial number 58. CONDITION: Fine overall. Fully functionable. Nice dark brown patina overall. Bright original blue found on barrel under the ejector housing. German Silver front sight has been re-soldered in place. Bore has strong rifling with areas of abrasion. Action remains crisp. Grips show moderate wear showing rounded corners with scattered dents and dings. Overall a respectable example of one of the most sought after and coveted Colt revolvers. Worthy of an advanced collection. -MKS- Name Value Accessories Barrel Length 7 - 1/2" Caliber/Bore .45 LC FFL Status Antique Manufacturer Colt Model Single Action Army Paperwork Serial Number 58