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''D.F.C.'' Inspected Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:4,500.00 USD Estimated At:NA
''D.F.C.'' Inspected Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army Revolver
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''D.F.C.'' Inspected Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army Cartridge Revolver, #61358, .45 Colt CF cal., 7.5'' round barrel marked ''Colt's Pt. F. A. Mfg. Co. Hartford, CT. U.S.A.'' in one line, left frame with three-line 1871-72-75 patent dates, ''45 CAL'' marked on left triggerguard bolster; full nickel-plated finish, case hardened hammer, blued trigger and screws; steel grip straps with one-piece varnished walnut grips. All visible matching serial numbers, including ''1358'' on cylinder periphery; loading gate correctly marked ''1302'', correct early-style ''donut'' ejector rod head. Mfg'd 1880. The ''D.F.C.'' mark of U.S. Inspector David F. Clark is stamped on bottom of frame above the serial number, on bottom of barrel ahead of the cylinder pin (along with a ''P'' proofmark), and on cylinder periphery near another ''P'' proofmark. A 1987-dated Colt factory letter accompanying this revolver states that it was shipped to Shoverling, Daly & Gales in New York City on Dec. 27, 1880 in a shipment of 50 guns, and confirms all the above features but for the finish, which was listed as ''blue''. This discrepancy is explained by this gun's classification as an ''Overrun'' revolver: one originally intended for the U.S. military but factory refinished in nickel plate and sold to the commercial/civilian market, and its lack of a ''U.S.'' frame stamping and military inspector's grip cartouches. Condition is excellent, retaining 92% nickel with very minor losses at right front frame cutout and rear of right frame at grip juncture; grip straps show losses at sides and wear areas but difficult to discern as color matches closely. All markings are sharp; many screw heads retain their original bright fire blue. Walnut grips retain most of their original glossy varnish with knackering at right bottom and a large ''38'' stamped into each side. Action is crisp, tight and positive; bore appears bright with sharp rifling. Est.: $8,500-$11,500. (Antique)