RARE EARLY 1ST YEAR PRODUCTION 38 COLT MODEL 1877 DA “LIGHTNING” 3-1/2” BARREL BEAUTIFUL CHECKERED WALNUT GRIPS, FACTORY LETTER
Description:
Description:
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This early production 38 Colt with S/N 1642 was shipped to Spies, Kissam & Company, NYC on August 27, 1877. It was a 38/c, Blue, 10 Guns in shipment. Because the barrel length and type of stocks were considered standard at the time, these two items were not listed.
This early revolver was equipped with a German silver front sight of the Colt Single Action Profile, a sight type that was used for a very brief time.
The serial number 1642 appears on the frame, trigger guard, backstrap, and underside of barrel. It is also no doubt in the backstrap channel of the grips, but I never risk removing one-piece grips when they fit perfectly everywhere, and are obviously original. The cylinder has no serial number, as often is the case with early production, but the cylinder diameter is 0.030” smaller, as with all early Colt Lightnings. When the 41 Colt caliber was first offered in late 1877, the cylinder diameter had to be increased.
This is one of the earliest Colt Lightnings with a mainspring tension screw, a feature added after about serial number 1000.
All markings are very distinct on this revolver, including the etched “Colt D. A. 38”, the patent dates, the two-line barrel address, and all serial numbers. The gate has the assembly number 583, which matches a number on the frame under the trigger guard.
The mechanism works perfectly, with all hammer notches sharp as new, and providing tight cylinder lock-up. The bore is excellent and bright. The cylinder chambers are also excellent, and the pictures may show some grease in chambers after this gun was thoroughly cleaned.
The metal surfaces have retained a generous 10% fire blue overall, with balance fading to a nice blending medium gray color. The early coarse-checkered grips are in excellent condition, showing about 85% original varnish and only minor wear. There are no chips out anywhere.
Fifteen High Resolution Photographs are presented with this listing.
A fine early example of the Colt Lightning with a $150 Colt Factory letter. No FFL Required, can Ship Directly to purchaser.
Terms:
No International sales. Not being sold as a shooter, but as a collector’s Colt M1877 DA. If you want to shoot any older gun, first take it to a competent gunsmith and have it checked out.
Three day inspection period, but ask questions prior to buying (see additional notes on returns at bottom). Additional pictures sent on request.
I accept Bank Cashier’s Checks and Postal Money Orders. No personal checks or Western Union MO’s. Payment must be received within seven days after sale date, and sent by Priority Mail with Tracking Number provided by buyer. Shipping by USPS Priority Mail (12” x 12” x 5-1/2” priority box) insured for $45.50 (and tracking number provided to buyer). Usually shipping occurs within 3 days after payment received.
Three (3) day Inspection and Return Policy: Only if returned Exactly as Received - Not Disassembled for Inspection, Not Tampered, Not Broken/Chipped/Scratched/Dented/Scuffed, or any Parts Switched. Any Original Documentation sent Must Be Returned with item.
SOLD
Antique: Yes