Colt Model 1877 Thunderer .41 LC 4.5” Double Action Revolver 1883 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: LSB251203RP004
Make: Colt
Model: 1877 Thunderer
Serial Number: 43242
Year of Manufacture: 1883 / Antique
Caliber: .41 Long Colt
Action Type: Single Action/Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT. D. A. 41”. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. / HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / “ “ 15, “ 74. / “ JAN. 19, “ 75.” The trigger guard, frame and butt of grip frame is marked “43242”.
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half moon blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are white Mother of Pearl smooth grips. There is a crack in the top of the left grip panel. The grips have a pleasing grain to the MOP. The grips have a few minor scuffs on the bottom. Overall, the grips are in Good to Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel, case hardened hammer & trigger
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion or fouling present in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 70% of its original nickel finish. The balance of the finish shows a frosted nickel, thinning on the leading edges and on the frame. There is relatively light operational wear for an antique. The markings are clear. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. Overall, this revolver is in about Good to Very Good condition as an antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly but the timing is slightly off in double action mode, which was a recurring problem with the 1877 model. The hammer will sit in the half cock position. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1877 Thunderer is one of Colt’s earliest double action revolver designs and represents an important evolutionary step in American handgun development. Introduced in 1877, the Thunderer variant was chambered in .41 Long Colt and offered more power than its .38 caliber “Lightning” counterpart while retaining a compact, easily carried frame. Manufactured in 1883, this example qualifies as an antique and reflects the distinctive profile and mechanical complexity that have made the 1877 series both historically significant and highly collectible among advanced Colt enthusiasts.
This revolver retains approximately 70% of its original nickel finish, with areas of thinning and frosted appearance along the leading edges and frame that are consistent with honest age and handling. The case hardened hammer and trigger provide attractive contrast. The bore is bright with well-defined rifling and no visible erosion, rating 9.5/10 in this writer’s opinion. The white Mother of Pearl grips exhibit attractive grain and fire, showing a crack at the top of the left panel along with minor scuffs at the bottoms, yet remain visually striking and period appropriate in appearance. Markings are clear, screw heads remain sharp, and pins are unmarred, all supporting the revolver’s overall Good to Very Good antique condition.
Mechanically, the revolver functions correctly, though the timing is slightly off in double action mode—a commonly encountered characteristic of the 1877 model due to its intricate internal design. As an 1883 production antique Thunderer with desirable .41 Long Colt chambering and eye-catching Mother of Pearl grips, this piece offers both historical appeal and display presence for the Colt collector. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
BF
