Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER HISTORIC single-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Single Action Army - 1st Generation!
According to the included factory letter from Colt, this Colt Single Action Army was shipped to Simmons Hardware Company in St. Louis, Missouri, on December 7, 1880. Further remarks read: As noted above, the records do not provide information with regard to the barrel length of the subject revolver or the type of stocks. However, this is usually an indication of a 7 ½" barrel length and walnut stocks, as these were considered standard issue for that time period.
This specific revolver, with serial number 60156, is part of "The Condemned, Overrun, and Buy-Back Revolvers.
According to our research, the “Condemned,” “Overrun,” and “Buy-back” Colt revolvers form a fascinating category within Colt’s 19th-century production, illustrating how military inspection standards and manufacturing processes influenced the firearms that later entered civilian circulation. “Condemned” revolvers are the most clearly defined of the group—these were firearms or individual components rejected by U.S. Ordnance sub-inspectors during government contract production. Parts were typically marked with a bold “C” to indicate condemnation, often stamped over or near the inspector’s initials or the “U.S.” marking on the frame. Once a government contract was fulfilled, Colt was permitted to reclaim and assemble serviceable, condemned parts into complete revolvers for sale on the civilian market. Because these revolvers were originally built to military specifications, most were in .45 Colt caliber, though some were later adapted for the .44-40 cartridge. The appearance of the “C” mark continues to raise procedural questions—such as why certain parts were first approved by inspectors, only to be condemned afterward—adding to their intrigue among collectors and historians.
Condemnations occurred throughout the U.S. Cavalry revolver production era, with higher frequencies noted during Lt. David A. Lyle’s inspection periods in 1876–1877 and the early 1880s, when issues such as misaligned cylinder chambers led to an uptick in rejected components. Surviving examples, such as revolver #60156 (manufactured in late 1880 and shipped that December), display several hallmarks typical of these models: nickel-plated finish (sometimes differing from factory records), civilian “.45 CAL” markings on the trigger guard, partial serial numbers, a sideways “C” stamped over the serial number on the frame, and an absence of ordnance sub-inspector stamps on the cylinder. These revolvers occupy a unique niche in Colt history—bridging military and civilian production—and today serve as physical records of the meticulous inspection practices and manufacturing challenges of Colt’s government contract years.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action Army - 1st Generation
Serial: 60156
Date of Manufacture: 1880
Caliber: .45 Colt
Finish: Nickel (Although the Colt Letter States it Left in “Blue”)
Barrel Length: 7 ½"
Optics/Sights: Integral Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut Grips
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Single Action Army, famously known as the “Peacemaker,” is one of the most celebrated revolvers in American firearms history, embodying the ruggedness and independence of the American frontier. First introduced in 1873 by Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, the Single Action Army was originally chambered in .45 Colt and designed as a reliable sidearm for the U.S. Army. Built on a solid steel frame with a six-shot cylinder, the revolver utilizes a single-action mechanism, requiring the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot. Early models featured a simple fixed front sight with a rear notch, ensuring durability and ease of use in field conditions. Over time, Colt produced the revolver in multiple barrel lengths, from compact 4.75-inch models to 7.5-inch “Artillery” versions, as well as in a range of calibers, allowing it to adapt to military, law enforcement, and civilian needs. Its combination of mechanical reliability, robust construction, and accurate performance quickly earned it a legendary status among soldiers, lawmen, and frontier settlers alike. The Colt Single Action Army has evolved through several distinct generations, each reflecting changes in design, manufacturing methods, and market demand. The First Generation (1873–1941) consisted of the original military and civilian models, noted for their hand-fitted parts, crisp action, and classic finishes. The Second Generation (1956–1974), produced after Colt’s factory reorganization, introduced modern materials and slight dimensional refinements while retaining the traditional appearance and single-action mechanics. The Third Generation (1976–present) saw a broader expansion into commemorative and custom models, including factory-engraved editions, varying calibers, and specialized finishes, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts. Each generation maintained the revolver’s iconic silhouette and single-action operation while improving consistency, durability, and aesthetic options. Today, the Colt Single Action Army remains not only a historically significant firearm but also a symbol of American heritage, with examples from every generation valued for their mechanical excellence, cultural importance, and collectible appeal.
Contents:
Model: Single Action Army - 1st Generation
Serial: 60156
Date of Manufacture: 1880
Caliber: .45 Colt
Finish: Nickel (Although the Colt Letter States it Left in “Blue”)
Barrel Length: 7 ½"
Optics/Sights: Integral Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut Grips
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Single Action Army, famously known as the “Peacemaker,” is one of the most celebrated revolvers in American firearms history, embodying the ruggedness and independence of the American frontier. First introduced in 1873 by Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, the Single Action Army was originally chambered in .45 Colt and designed as a reliable sidearm for the U.S. Army. Built on a solid steel frame with a six-shot cylinder, the revolver utilizes a single-action mechanism, requiring the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot. Early models featured a simple fixed front sight with a rear notch, ensuring durability and ease of use in field conditions. Over time, Colt produced the revolver in multiple barrel lengths, from compact 4.75-inch models to 7.5-inch “Artillery” versions, as well as in a range of calibers, allowing it to adapt to military, law enforcement, and civilian needs. Its combination of mechanical reliability, robust construction, and accurate performance quickly earned it a legendary status among soldiers, lawmen, and frontier settlers alike. The Colt Single Action Army has evolved through several distinct generations, each reflecting changes in design, manufacturing methods, and market demand. The First Generation (1873–1941) consisted of the original military and civilian models, noted for their hand-fitted parts, crisp action, and classic finishes. The Second Generation (1956–1974), produced after Colt’s factory reorganization, introduced modern materials and slight dimensional refinements while retaining the traditional appearance and single-action mechanics. The Third Generation (1976–present) saw a broader expansion into commemorative and custom models, including factory-engraved editions, varying calibers, and specialized finishes, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts. Each generation maintained the revolver’s iconic silhouette and single-action operation while improving consistency, durability, and aesthetic options. Today, the Colt Single Action Army remains not only a historically significant firearm but also a symbol of American heritage, with examples from every generation valued for their mechanical excellence, cultural importance, and collectible appeal.
Contents:
This example is in excellent overall condition, showing far less evidence of use than normal for its age and history. Additionally, it will ship with the factory Colt letter and all other paperwork as pictured above!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
