Colt 1st Gen. Single Action Army 7 1/2” .45 Colt SAA Revolver 1923 C&R

SOLD FOR: $3,401.00

LSB#: LSB250902JM003

Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army

Serial Number: 344843 – All matching, including cylinder.

Year of Manufacture: 1923 / C&R

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action Type: 6-Shot Single Action Revolver with Side Gate Loaded Cylinder

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. / HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the barrel is marked .45 COLT.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871. / JULY 2. 72. JAN. 19. 75.” and with a Rampant Colt logo. The bottom front of the frame is marked with the serial number “344843”. The matching serial number is also stamped on the right side grip flats of the trigger guard and the backstrap. This was a late serial number SAA produced after Colt relocated the visible serial numbers on the backstrap and trigger guard to underneath the grips. The rear face of the cylinder is marked with “43”, the last two digits in the serial number. The loading gate is marked with assembly number “562”. 

Barrel Length: 7 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade soldered to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V”-notch integral to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are replacement two-piece walnut with a very nice pleasing grain. There are no chips or cracks. There are very minor scratches or scuffs. This revolver has a replacement “Bullseye” ejector head. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blue barrel and trigger guard. Case Hardened frame and hammer.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and shiny. There is no erosion in the bore. This revolver has seen very few rounds through it over its 100-year life. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains 90% of its metal finish. Most of the bluing loss is on the trigger guard and backstap, which have been worn to the white from handling. The case coloring on the frame and hammer are still vivid, including on the interior of the frame and loading gate. The cylinder has drag marks on the cylinder stops and a turn line. The rear of the backstrap and the trigger guard show significant loss of finish on this revolver. The face of the cylinder has very faint carbon rings around the chambers. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The action shows limited operational wear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition as a 100-year old firearm.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. The cylinder locks with light play on each chamber.  We have not fired this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army revolver stands as a quintessential symbol of American heritage, epitomizing the spirit of the frontier era. Serving as the official sidearm of the United States during the final twenty years of the 19th century, it was wielded by a diverse cast of characters including pioneers, outlaws, and lawmen as they navigated the challenges of a nation in expansion. Its allure has transcended generations, capturing the imagination of audiences through its depictions in film and television, a legacy that continues to this day. This particular late model SAA, crafted in 1923 showcases the enduring craftsmanship of Colt’s Single Action Army, featuring remarkably good mechanics for its age, a bore in excellent condition, and vivid case coloring, considering its 100-year history. 

This revolver shows limited signs of operational use, aside from the finish wear on the trigger guard and backstrap. It is an honest 1st generation late model Colt SAA with the historical 7 1/2″ barrel. The revolver operates smoothly, underscoring the durability and reliability that have made the 1st Generation Single Action Army revolvers highly collectible. This piece is no exception, representing a tangible link to the storied past of the American West and the enduring legacy of the Colt Single Action Army as an icon of American history and craftsmanship. Please view our high quality photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids! –

BF