Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Single Action Army Revolver in Rare .32 Colt with Ivory Grips and Factory Letter

Description:
A factory-documented and exceptionally scarce Colt Bisley Flattop Target revolver, this 1897-shipped example is one of only 44 recorded in .32 Colt caliber and one of just 976 Bisley Flattop Target revolvers reportedly manufactured, making it a standout prize for advanced Colt collectors.

• Accompanied by a Colt factory letter documenting original shipment details:
  • Shipped January 19, 1897
  • Shipped to Kennedy Brothers in Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Listed in .32 Colt caliber
  • Listed with a 7 1/2 inch barrel
  • Listed with blue finish
  • Listed with hard rubber grips
  • Shipped as the only gun of its type in the shipment
• Extremely scarce Colt Bisley Flattop Target model:
  • Only 976 Colt Bisley Flattop Target revolvers reportedly manufactured in total
  • This example is especially rare as one of only 44 recorded in factory ledgers as shipped in .32 Colt
  • Rarity information cited in “The Book of Colt Firearms” by Wilson and Sutherland
• Desirable later factory ivory grips:
  • Currently fitted with a set of later-production factory ivory grips
  • Colt medallions are inset at the tops of the grips
  • Adds strong visual appeal and collector desirability
• Distinctive Bisley Model features:
  • Higher frame profile
  • Humpback grip and back strap
  • Curved hammer with wide knurled spur for improved thumb contact
  • Wide trigger
• Target configuration features:
  • Flattop frame
  • Beaded blade target front sight
  • Dovetail-mounted notch rear sight
• Barrel and frame markings:
  • Top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the one-line Colt Hartford address
  • Left side of the barrel is marked “(BISLEY MODEL) 32 COLT.”
  • Left side of the frame is roll-stamped with the two-line patent date markings
  • Patent markings are followed by the encircled Rampant Colt trademark
• Serial-number and assembly details:
  • Matching visible full serial numbers on the frame
  • Matching visible full serial number on the trigger guard
  • Matching visible full serial number on the back strap
  • Cylinder is unnumbered and marked “V” on the rear
  • Loading gate is marked with assembly number “44”
• A rare, factory-lettered Colt target revolver with documented shipment history, scarce caliber, desirable Bisley features, and strong appeal for collectors focused on high-condition, low-production, and historically significant Colt variations.

Condition

Exceptionally fine, retains 90% original blue finish, with cylinder drag lines, some file marks on the radius of the front strap, scratches and pitting on butt, sharp markings and edges in the balance of metal overall. The grips are very fine, with well-defined edges, a few very minor small chips at the top edges, a few minor age lines on the butts, and attractive grain. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional Colt Bisley Flattop Target Model Single Action Army revolver in rare .32 Colt!

Handgun Caliber: .32 Long Colt
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action Army
Serial Number: 167722
Barrel Length: 7 1/2 inch round
Condition: The bore is partially bright with some light frosting and crisp rifling.

Price: $16,999.99