
US Colt Model 1878/1902 Philippine Alaskan .45 DA Revolver, MFD 1902 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,275.00
LSB#: WY241008CW070
Make: Colt
Model: U.S. Ordinance Department Colt Model 1878/1902 Alaskan Philippine (USN Marked)
Serial Number: 45538
Year of Manufacture: 1902
Caliber: .45 LC
Action Type: Double Action Revolver, Side Loading Gate
Barrel Length: 6”
Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a “V” notch in the top strap. The front sight is a quarter round blade fixed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber with smooth borders, wedge-shaped smooth base and rampant colt in oval at the top of each panel. The checkering is still pronounced and there are only scattered marks and dings. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is worn. There is a good amount of erosion in the bore. This bore rates at a 2 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is very little wear to the new finish, but some erosion evident under the finish. The screw heads are generally attractive. The markings are still legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions properly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with a factory letter confirming its date of shipment July 28, 1902, Sold to United States Government to Commanding Officer Springfield Armory.
Our Assessment: The Colt 1878/1902 Alaskan revolver, also known as the “Philippine Colt,” was a variant of the Colt 1878 double-action revolver. It was specially designed for use in the harsh and rugged environments of Alaska and the Philippines during the early 20th century. The revolver gained its association with these regions due to its adoption by U.S. military personnel who were stationed there during the Philippine–American War (1899–1902) and later, in Alaska, during the early 1900s. One of its key features was its chambering in large calibers, most notably the .45 Colt, which made it a powerful sidearm suitable for both defense against wildlife and enemy combatants in challenging conditions. The Colt 1878/1902 Alaskan was rugged and reliable, with a robust design intended to withstand extreme temperatures and rough handling. While not as famous as the Colt Single Action Army revolver, this model served in a niche role, particularly in the hands of U.S. troops dealing with the difficult terrain and unpredictable threats in these territories. The revolver’s legacy endures as an example of Colt’s adaptability to different military and environmental needs at the turn of the century.
With only 4,600 1878/1902 revolvers purchased by the Ordinance Department, this is a difficult gun to find. There is an interesting stamp on the left side of the frame, possibly a USN monogram. This deserves further research. For both the military and the Colt Collector, this is a Good example of a rare pistol.
– S. H.
