Colt Python German Import .357 Magnum 4” SA/DA Revolver Blued, MFD 1974
SOLD FOR: $1,677.00
LSB#: LSB251030RP010
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: E68139
Date of Manufacture: 1974 / C&R ()
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 with the serial number “ E68139”. The left side of the frame at the chamber has a German Nitro Proof mark, a crosshatched shield of the Munich proof house and a shield showing the year of import “74”. Finally, there is a mark on the frame above the three marks where the barrel passes through the frame. That mark appears to be from Helmut Hoffman GmbH, the German sporting goods firm that imported this Python to Germany. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and the rear of the trigger guard is marked with an “B”. There is also a U.S. import mark in the crane cut for “TIA MINOT ND”.
Barrel Length: 4” Vent-Rib with Full Underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade pinned to the front of the rib with an orange insert. 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 checkered wood with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have very minor handling marks and the checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95% of its finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There are light handling marks and smudges on the finish. The cylinder has a very faint turn-line. There are thin carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine 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. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Colt Python has long been regarded as the pinnacle of American double-action revolver craftsmanship, and this 1974 example adds an uncommon and highly compelling layer of international history. Introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship revolver, the Python was conceived as a premium, hand-fitted target and sporting arm rather than a utilitarian duty gun. Each example was assembled and tuned by skilled craftsmen, with extensive hand polishing, precise timing, and an action celebrated for its exceptionally smooth double-action pull and crisp single-action break. The ventilated rib, full underlug, and balanced proportions quickly established the Python as the standard against which all other double-action revolvers were measured.
What sets this revolver apart is its documented German import history. Shipped to West Germany in the early 1970s and imported by Helmut Hofmann GmbH, a major German supplier to hunters, shooters, police, and military organizations, this Python bears correct German Nitro proof marks, the Munich proof house shield, and a 1974 date mark. These proofs confirm formal German proofing and acceptance, placing this revolver within a small subset of Pythons that entered the European market during the Cold War era. Whether intended for commercial sale or potential government procurement, its documented journey to Germany and eventual return adds meaningful provenance and collector interest beyond a standard domestic Python.
Condition further reinforces its appeal. Retaining approximately 95 percent of its original blued finish, with only light handling marks, a very faint cylinder turn line, and a mirror-bright bore, this revolver presents as a carefully preserved example rather than a heavily used one. The solid lockup, sharp markings, and well-kept factory-style stocks underscore its quality and originality. Taken as a whole, this German-import Colt Python represents a rare convergence of elite Colt craftsmanship, international proof history, and strong overall condition, offering collectors an opportunity to acquire a Python with both mechanical excellence and a story that extends well beyond Hartford. Please see our high resolution photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!!!
BF
