Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this desirable ANTIQUE single-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Single Action Army 1st Generation - Intermediate Black Powder!
This exceptional Colt Single Action Army 1st Generation – Intermediate Black Powder model is a true standout, featuring fully hand-engraved genuine silver grips that showcase remarkable craftsmanship. The grips are adorned with an intricate 24-karat gold Aztec calendar, complemented by additional gold embellishments that enhance the revolver’s striking visual appeal. Master hand engraving extends across the entire piece, highlighting its custom nature and elevating it into a work of functional art. A rare and exquisite example, it seamlessly blends historical significance with fine artistry.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action Army 1st Generation - Intermediate Black Powder
Serial: 99645
Date of Manufacture: 1883
Caliber: .44-40 (.44 WCF)
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 4 ¾"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Blade Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Fully Hand-Engraved Genuine Silver Grips with 24kt Aztec Calendar and other Gold Embellishments
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / This example is master hand engraved.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, known as the “Peacemaker,” holds a legendary place in American firearms history, and the Intermediate Black Powder production period (serial numbers 22,000–130,000; circa 1876–1890) represents a dynamic and transitional era in its evolution. This phase marked Colt’s response to growing military and civilian demand, as well as technological refinement. Key mechanical and cosmetic changes emerged during this time. Around serial number 22,000, Colt shifted from the elegant italicized barrel address to a more legible block letter style, reflecting the company’s shift toward clearer branding and more consistent production methods. In 1878, the company also introduced the popular .44-40 (.44 WCF) caliber, a major move that aligned Colt with Winchester’s Model 1873 rifle cartridge and broadened its appeal in the frontier market. By the 52,000 serial range, Colt transitioned the ejector rod head from the original round button style to the more familiar oval shape. These changes, though subtle, demonstrate Colt’s attentiveness to both function and customer feedback during a critical growth period.
Model: Single Action Army 1st Generation - Intermediate Black Powder
Serial: 99645
Date of Manufacture: 1883
Caliber: .44-40 (.44 WCF)
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 4 ¾"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Blade Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Fully Hand-Engraved Genuine Silver Grips with 24kt Aztec Calendar and other Gold Embellishments
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / This example is master hand engraved.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, known as the “Peacemaker,” holds a legendary place in American firearms history, and the Intermediate Black Powder production period (serial numbers 22,000–130,000; circa 1876–1890) represents a dynamic and transitional era in its evolution. This phase marked Colt’s response to growing military and civilian demand, as well as technological refinement. Key mechanical and cosmetic changes emerged during this time. Around serial number 22,000, Colt shifted from the elegant italicized barrel address to a more legible block letter style, reflecting the company’s shift toward clearer branding and more consistent production methods. In 1878, the company also introduced the popular .44-40 (.44 WCF) caliber, a major move that aligned Colt with Winchester’s Model 1873 rifle cartridge and broadened its appeal in the frontier market. By the 52,000 serial range, Colt transitioned the ejector rod head from the original round button style to the more familiar oval shape. These changes, though subtle, demonstrate Colt’s attentiveness to both function and customer feedback during a critical growth period.
Cosmetically, this period also saw important updates. The first two-piece hard rubber grips with the iconic eagle-and-shield motif began appearing in 1882, and by 1888, they had become the standard grip option, replacing wood on most civilian models. Barrel lengths were also evolving with market preferences; shorter lengths like 4¾-inch and 5½-inch barrels began gaining popularity for their improved handling and ease of carry. Colt also began to gradually phase out the practice of stamping serial numbers on the cylinders and barrels of civilian revolvers—especially on nickel-plated models—after the 60,000 serial range. Blue-finished guns typically retained serial numbers on barrels and cylinders up to around the 110,000 range, with some examples continuing that practice into the 125,000 range. Another key visual change was the shift from two-line, two-date patent markings to a three-line, three-date configuration by 1878, further distinguishing these revolvers within the lineage. These revolvers are not only functionally significant but also offer collectors an incredible depth of variety, nuance, and historical character. They represent the bridge between Colt’s post-Civil War experimentation and the standardization that would define the late 19th-century firearms industry.
Contents:
Contents:
This example is in excellent overall condition for its age, showing no evidence of abuse or mishandling that we can see.
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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About Us
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.
