^Lot 4234 RARE AND UNIQUE DOCUMENTED "DUAL TONE" COLT SAA

FLAT TOP TARGET REVOLVER CHAMBERED IN 44 RUSSIAN. Cal. 44 Russian. S# 162884. According to " THE 36 CAILBERS OF THE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY" By David M Brown on page 10, there were only 923 standard frame flat top target single action revolvers produced. Page 94 lists a total of 51 that were manufactured in 44 Russian. Total production of the 44 Russian chambering across all configurations is 154. That alone would make this an exceptionally rare and desirable revolver however this example left the factory with a unique "Dual tone" finish. Accompanying factory letter lists the finish as nickel with a note stating that the revolver left the factory with a blued barrel. Subject revolver is pictured in " THE OFFICIAL RECORD OF THE COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY REVOLVER 1873-1895" By Wilkerson on page 394. This reference lists a total of 106 flat top targets manufactured; 8 are listed 7 1/2" nickel. Factory record lists this revolver as a 44 S&W, this is likely an error as there are numerous instances and confusion in regards to the exact chamberings in Colts records regarding the 44 Russian vs S&W chambering. Cylinder is observed to be counterbored, leaving a slight shoulder towards the front. Colts initial offering of the 44 S&W cartridge did not take place until 1913, 2 years after this gun was shipped. Bbl 7 1/2" with target sights. Left side of bbl stamped "44 RUSSIAN CTG.". Nickel plated frame, cylinder trigger guard frame and backstrap. Revolver is stocked with 2 piece mother of pearl grips. Left side has 2 sets of carved double lines. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Colt Factory Letter Stating: "Serial Number: 162884 / Caliber: .44 S&W / Barrel Length: 7 1/2" / Finish: Nickel / Type of Stocks: Not Listed / Shipped to: A.B. Cole / Address: Unavailable / Date of Shipment: January 4,1911 / Number of Same Type Guns in Shipment: 1". CONDITION: Bbl and ejector housing retain approximately 80% original blue finish with scattered spots of wear, thinning and light scratches. Nickeled parts retain 85% original nickel finish showing frosting and scattered light flaking. Grips are good with scattered small chips and stable cracks. Mirror bore with crisp rifling. Mechanically excellent, all four clicks present. A very scarce target model chambered in the rare 44 Russian caliber with the hardly ever seen factory dual tone finish. Finding another SAA with this combination of rare features would be all but impossible. (26-1995/BH). CURIO. $17,500-25,000.