Engraved Colt Python Model 2 1/2″ Blued .357 Mag/ .38 Spl. Revolver 1976
SOLD FOR: $3,805.00
LSB#: LSB251006RB008
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 32941E
Date of Manufacture: 1976 / Modern
Caliber: .357 Magnum/ .38 Special
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder
Markings: On the left side of barrel is ‘’PYTHON .357’’/ “.357 MAGNUM CTG”, Right side of barrel has “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO./ HARTFORD, CONN U.S.A. The crane and crane but are stamped with the serial number ‘’32941E’’
Barrel Length: 2 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade pinned to the front of the rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base pinned to the top-strap. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth ivory with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips were likely replaced at the time of engraving. The grips have no visible wear. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Engraving: This revolver sports a fine after-market scroll engraving job in deep pin-dot relief that was completed by Madeline Crumling in 2024. The engraving covers the frame and the cylinder.
Type of Finish: Blued Steel
Finish Originality: Original to engraving
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its refinish. There are a few scattered minor small scratches, mostly on the top strap and front sight. There is no turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is solid, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The action functions correctly. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Wood and glass presentation case & engraving certificate of authenticity.
Our Assessment: The Colt Python has long occupied a singular position in American revolver history, representing the highest level of hand-fitted double-action craftsmanship ever offered by Colt. Introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship .357 Magnum, the Python was never intended to be a mass-production sidearm. Each revolver was extensively hand-polished, carefully timed, and tuned for an exceptionally smooth double-action pull and a crisp single-action break. The model’s ventilated rib, full underlug, and elegant proportions quickly established it as the standard by which all other double-action revolvers would be judged.
This 1976 Python is the highly sought-after 2 1/2-inch configuration, prized for its compact profile and distinctive balance. Short-barreled Pythons were produced in far smaller numbers than their longer-barreled counterparts and have long been favorites among advanced collectors. This example has been further elevated by a high-quality aftermarket engraving completed by Madeline Crumling in 2024. The scroll engraving is executed in deep pin-dot relief, with consistent line depth and clean transitions that complement the Python’s contours rather than obscuring them. Coverage is well balanced, enhancing the revolver’s visual presence while preserving legibility of markings and mechanical definition. The revolver was refinished at the time of engraving, and the quality of the blue finish provides an excellent contrast that allows the engraved surfaces to stand out with clarity and depth.
Condition is excellent throughout. Approximately 98 percent of the refinish remains, with only a few minor scattered scratches noted primarily on the top strap and front sight. There is no cylinder turn line, the bore is mirror bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating a full 10 out of 10, and all markings remain clear and crisp. The smooth ivory grips with silver-tone Colt medallions, likely fitted at the time of engraving, show no visible wear and present in excellent condition. Mechanically, the revolver exhibits solid lockup with no play when the trigger is held to the rear, and both single- and double-action operation function correctly. Housed in a wood and glass presentation case with paperwork, this engraved Python stands as a refined blend of Colt’s legendary mechanical excellence and contemporary custom engraving, offering strong appeal to collectors seeking a distinctive, presentation-grade example of one of the most iconic revolvers ever produced. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!
BF
