Custom Engraved Cased Pair Colt Single Action Army 7.5″ .45 Revolvers, 1978
SOLD FOR: $9,401
LSB#: 231207HE012, 231207HE013
Make: Colt
Model: Custom Engraved Pair Single Action Army, 3rd Generation
Serial Number: 98134SA, 98136SA
Year of Manufacture: 1978 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: Single Action Revolvers with Side Loading Gate Cylinders
Barrel Length: 7 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The front sights are blades fixed to the barrels. The rear sights are square grooves in the top straps.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are smooth pearl. The grips have some surface cracking and minor discoloration. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Gold
Finish Originality: Refinished at the time of engraving.
Bore Condition: The bores are bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in either bore.
Overall Condition: These handguns each retain about 99% of their metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, these revolvers are in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: We have elected to not test mechanics to avoid potential wear to the finish or engraving. Should the winner wish to operate the revolvers, we will guarantee that the actions function properly. We did not fire these handguns. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The revolvers come in a french-fit wood presentation case with pearl-handled cleaning accessories, pearl oiler, pearl lid for a compartment holding faux-cartridges, and two six-round cartridge blocks in opposite corners.
Our Assessment: The original Single Action Army, issued sidearm of the US military starting in 1873 and one of the most iconic implements of the American West, was first discontinued at the outset of WWII. Colt believed that swing-out cylinder revolvers and autoloading pistols had made the single action obsolete. The advent of the silver screen and the popularity of westerns reinvigorated interest in the Peacemaker and it was reintroduced in 1956 in the 2nd Generation. In 1974, Colt quietly discontinued production of this glorious revolver for the second time. Luckily, the loyal fans of the SAA would not need to wait long as colt would bring back the SAA in 1976 as the “3rd Generation”.
This is a very interesting pair of SAA revolvers made in 1978. They are chambered for .45 Colt with 7 1/2? barrels and have been quite skillfully engraved with gold trim. Each ejector housing has what appears to be a “JF” monogram, but we were not able to identify the engraver. The revolvers have been equipped with pearl handles and pearl is featured prominently in the accessories included in the attractive display case. The revolvers are in Excellent condition, showing little to no sign of use since the custom work was performed. The beautiful finish and presentation case will make these a wonderful addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
