Colt 1st Gen SAA Revolver – .45 Colt, 4.75″ Barrel, 1899 Production w/ Factory Letter

Offered here is a classic Colt Single Action Army revolver from the tail end of the 19th century, chambered in .45 Long Colt and featuring a 4 ¾” barrel. Serial number 184874 places its manufacture in 1899, and it comes with a Colt factory letter verifying shipment to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. of Chicago on March 29, 1899. It retains its original front sight and shows a well-earned patina over remaining traces of blue and case colors—true character for a working gun of this era.

The grips, although showing significant wear and a large chip on the left heel, fit perfectly and are believed to be original to the revolver. The action remains tight, and while the bore shows wear, it may improve with cleaning. The revolver has an intriguing dual listing in Colt’s records, with a second entry showing the same serial number shipped later that year in .41 caliber with a 7½” barrel—adding a layer of factory mystery to this antique.

This estate-consigned revolver is a wonderful piece for collectors seeking a historically significant Colt with documentation, honest wear, and authentic turn-of-the-century appeal.

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