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RARE Cop & Thug Colt Lettered and Marked by the U.S. Express Company
Guns International #: 100874173 Seller's Inventory #: 21554
Category: Colt Pistols - Antique - Colt Revolvers - Single Action
Seller's Information
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Seller: AncestryGunsLLC
Company: Ancestry Guns LLC
Member Since: 11/3/16
State: Missouri
Zip: 65203
Country: United States
Phone: (314) 707-7373
International Phone: 314-707-7373
Platinum Seller
Number of Active Listings: 1466
Total Number of Listings: 29962
Seller: FFL Dealer
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
Payment Types Accepted: Credit Card, Certified Check, Money Order
Description:
Antique Colt New Police Revolver Marked by U.S. Express Company
Very Rare Lettered Colt “Cop & Thug” with “U.S.X.” Provenance
Here we present an antique Colt New Police “Cop & Thug” Revolver, marked by the U.S. Express Company. Fewer than 4,000 of these revolvers were made, making them one of the prizes of Colt collecting. It is also a very aesthetically attractive firearm, due to its proportions, finish and unique “Cop & Thug” grips. The “Cop & Thug” motif is quite interesting and depicts a thug in a bowler hat and pea coat attempting to stab a policeman with a long knife, held in an icepick fashion. The cop is shown grabbing his assailant’s knife arm and holding a gun—presumably the Colt New Police Revolver—on the man with his left hand.
This New Police was shipped out on May 27, 1891 to Hartley & Graham located in New York City, along with 349 others, per the factory letter. What is really interesting about this is production of the New Police only lasted from 1882-1886. So it was over 5 years after this revolver’s manufacture (this serial number represents early to mid-range of production) that it was finally purchased and shipped to this famous arms agent and dealer.
Another aspect that makes this particular piece very desirable is that it is marked “U.S.X.” for the U.S. Express Company. This company began operations in 1854 and lasted until 1914, after the U.S. Parcel Post Law of 1913 put them out of business. Express companies were common in those days, since the USPS would not handle parcels any heavier than 4 pounds. This made business great for companies who would ship anything, just about anywhere, including full house kits to very rural areas. The additional express marking on the barrel is just above the acid etched panel marked “New Police .38”. Obviously, men working for the various express companies used to be armed by their employers. Companies like Wells Fargo and American Express also started in this line of work and armed their couriers against robbers and bandits.
This specimen is in fine condition. Over 75% of the nickel finish remains. The back of the hammer shows a beautiful original niter blue, as do several of the screw heads on the frame and grips. The hard rubber grips are in very fine condition: checkering is sharp, the “Colt” logo is clear, as is the “Cop & Thug” theme. Markings are clear. Thumbnail loading gate. Bore is fine. Action is excellent.
This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction. No other examples found for sale worldwide! Comes with factory letter.
Barrel is 4.5 inches in length.
Caliber: .38 Colt New Police (centerfire)
Bore is in excellent condition and shiny. The firearm is in excellent working order.
Overall condition as seen in photos.
Here is a fine conditioned, very rare Colt revolver with an interesting express company provenance, complete with a factory letter.
Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Delivered directly to your door by express mail!
Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.
ancestryguns
$4250
#21554
SOLD
Antique: Yes