COLT Python I3661 .357 Magnum DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1960 Nickel
Sold For: $5,576.00
LSB#: 220527KS001
Make: Colt
Model: Python (I3661)
Serial Number: 11624
Date of Manufacture: 1960 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
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 crane cut and the crane are marked “11624”; the crane is marked also with “7” and “h”. The left side plate is marked with a “Rampant Colt”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “W”.
Barrel Length: 6” with full-length vent rib and underlug.
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 and is 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 and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut each with a Gold Rampant Colt medallion. The grips are free of any notable wear or damage. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. Throughout the nickel there are minor scuffs and shallow hairline nicks. Most notable on the upper right side of the grip frame under the grip panel there is green buildup, possibly verdigris. Both sides of the upper grip frame are slightly darker than the rest of the nickel finish. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up 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. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Python includes its product matching Colt factory box, a serial-matching test-fire target, an original sales receipt from Colt, a Colt branded multi-tool key, an NRA info card, a “Handling the Gun” pamphlet, a cleaning brush, and small medallion commemorating the 125th anniversary of Colt in 1961.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, the US dipped its toes into the Vietnam situation for the first time, 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 is exemplified both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5? to 8? (this fine example is 6”) 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 made like the originals, so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. They are becoming harder and harder to find, making it difficult to bring oneself to actually fire a Python, should one lay their hands on an example. This Nickel revolver was made in 1960, sold in 1961 and is notable for being a very desirable nickel example. This Python was made at this time to the tune of 2,000 per year, and nickel is in general the less-produced version. Notable also is the high condition of the nickel finish which in all likelihood is as dazzling today as it was 62 years ago. This Python has been rather well taken care of and is truly lovely in the hand. This would be a welcome addition to any collection. Good luck and happy bidding!
