Factory D Engraved Colt Python Model Blue 4″ .357 Magnum Revolver, MFD 1977 Custom Shop Presentation Case & Letter, I3640

Sold For: $9,420

LSB#: 200812JN02

Make: Colt

Model: Python, Factory Class “D” Engraved

Serial Number: 57684E

Date of Manufacture: 1977 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup), Shipped June, 1978

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “PYTHON .357 / * 357 MAGNUM CTG. *”. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”. The flat under the crane and the crane are marked “57684E”, the flat has inspection marks. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “S”. The left of the grip frame is marked “COLT ENG.” under the grip. The barrel, frame and cylinder have extensive factory class “D” scroll engraving.

Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 4”.

Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte black finish to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold Colt medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. Most screw heads are sharp, the grip screw is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The trigger is smooth in double action, and crisp in single action. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes in a Colt Custom Shop leatherette presentation case with formed orange velvet insert and a Colt factory letter confirming the original configuration of the revolver and factory engraving. The gun was shipped to Valley Gun Distributors in Northridge, CA on June 27, 1978 as the only such revolver in the shipment. The yellow “stop-sign” hang-tag is still present on the trigger guard. The case has scattered storage wear on the exterior, some fraying at edges and corners and the velvet insert has minor wear from the revolver. Overall, the case is in about Very Good condition. The letter is in Excellent condition.

Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, and Colt began shipping the finest precision combat and target revolver ever made. Each revolver was hand-tuned at the factory and this attention to detail shows both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5? to 8? and with some of the finest machining and finishing ever seen in the industry, the Python has earned its reputation and continues to be sought after to this day. The Colt Python revolvers are no longer being made (at least, not as well), so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. The revolvers by themselves are becoming harder and harder to find, and this revolver is factory class “D” engraved with gorgeous scroll work throughout the exposed metal surfaces. With its Custom Shop presentation case and Colt factory letter, this beautiful revolver is sure to catch the attention of Colt collectors. Please see our pictures and good luck!

CA Legal or CA Private Party Transferable (THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO OUT-OF-STATE RESIDENTS): This Pistol CANNOT be sold as a dealer sale in California but CAN be transferred as a Private Party Transfer (PPT) as our Simi Valley location. Out of state residents can disregard this section – your local laws apply.