Rare Cased Colt Python Snake Eyes Set 296 of 500 .357 Magnum Revolvers 1989
SOLD FOR: $27525
LSB#: 231004WS001, 231004WS002
Make: Colt
Model: Snake Eyes Python Pair, 296 of 500
Serial Number: EYES296, 296EYES
Year of Manufacture: 1989
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single & Double Action Swing-Out Cylinder Revolvers
Markings: Each revolver is marked “SNAKE EYES” on the left of the barrel, “-357 MAGNUM CARTRIDGE- / COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” on the right. The sideplates each have a rampant colt. The left of the trigger guards have a verified proof at the front and “V” at the rear. Each revolver has its serial number marked on the butt.
Barrel Length: 2 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The front sights are ramped blades with serrated orange plastic inserts, pinned to the barrels’ ventilated ribs. The rear sights are white outlined square notches, adjustable for windage and elevation in bases pinned to the topstraps.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece faux-ivory panels with the left panels etched with “snake eyes” dice and the right panels etched with a Royal Flush in Diamonds. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: “Royal” Blue and “Ultimate” Bright Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bores. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: Each handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The revolvers show light handling marks and some minor operational wear. Each has a thin turn-line on the cylinder, not through the finish, slightly more notable on the stainless cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, these revolvers are in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The actions function correctly. The double action triggers are smooth, the single actions are crisp. Each cylinder locks with no play when the trigger is depressed. We did not fire these handguns. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Each revolver comes in a maroon cardboard Colt box with serial-matching label, two-piece styrofoam insert and an assortment of factory paperwork including manual. A Colt Snake Eyes walnut presentation case is included with Colt branded dice (showing snake eyes, of course), Colt branded playing cards and poker chips. There is a fluorescent light housed in the back of the case, we have tested the light and it works. One of the dice has come free, but still has its mounting rod attached. Both of the revolver mounting rods are missing, replaced with metal brackets.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, the first cans of Coca-Cola were sold, 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? 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 like the originals, so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. It should come as no surprise that the limited editions of the Python model have become quite desirable among collectors and among the most scarce is the Snake Eyes set.
With only 500 pairs made, the Snake Eyes Pythons would each be desirable in its own right, one having a Royal Blue finish, one Ultimate Bright Stainless, and each with a 2 1/2″ barrel. The rarity of the pair is enhanced by their unique markings, being the only Pythons to not actually feature the word “Python” anywhere in their markings, and being the only Python model with its serial marked on the butt of the frame rather than the crane and crane cut. The set comes with a very attractive backlit display case, featuring dice, playing cards and poker chips, each Colt branded.
This set, number 296, comes with boxes and display case. This is a must-have for the serious Colt collector, especially if your focus is on Pythons. You never know when you’re going to get another chance at one of these beautiful pairs. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
