Here's a look at one of the less ostentatious - though no less remarkable - lots from this month's sale of the Milhous Collection: a rare and historic Colt single action engraved army revolver.
The Milhous Collection is one of the finest and most comprehensive assemblages of Americana ever sold. Naturally this includes one of the most important factors in American history, Colt firearms.
This antique engraved army revolver was first produced in 1914 using leftover cylinders from the discontinued Colt Model 1878 DA Long Fluted cylinder supply.
The gun's provenance is fully-documented. Records indicate that it was first sold on September 17, 1941 and shipped to the Belknap Hardware Company in Louisville, Kentucky.
This rare Colt, serial numbered 330870, has a quintessential rare long-fluted cylinder with a six-round capacity. The bullets fire down a 5.5 inches round barrel.
 The rare and historic Colt single action engraved army revolver |
According to the gun's condition report, it is in "excellent overall condition." The firearm's nickel finish is "very nice". Its design includes walnut grips with a star on the right grip.
The auctioneer's lot notes mention that these grips were "subsequently custom embellished in the 20th century". Interested collectors might want to ask more about this before bidding on the gun.
The antique Colt single action engraved army revolver will auction on February 24 with a $5,500-$8,500 presale estimate.
Given Colt's historical importance and ongoing popularity among collectors, the rare firearm will undoubtedly prove popular at the Milhous Collection sale.
