5048

RARE 3-DIGIT COLT NAVY GRIPPED 1871-72 OPEN-TOP

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:4,000.00 USD Estimated At:8,000.00 - 12,000.00 USD
RARE 3-DIGIT COLT NAVY GRIPPED 1871-72 OPEN-TOP
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[?]Live Online Auction Starts In 2026 Aug 09 @ 10:00 (UTC-04:00 : AST/EDT)
CHAMBERED IN .42 STETSON CAL. Cal 42 Stetson 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 stating the following: Colt factory letter stating the following: Serial Number: 179 / Caliber: .42 Stetson / Barrel Length: 7 1/2" / Finish: Blue / Type of Stocks: Wood / Shipped To: Cooper, Harris & Hodgkins / Address: New York, New York / Date of Shipment: July 25, 1872 / Number of Same Type Guns in Shipment: 50. Also a 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. Holster very good overall with even, fine craquelure. Stitching is tight & complete. (01-29427/BH). ANTIQUE. $8,000-12,000.