Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this BREATHTAKING ONE-OF-A-KIND single-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Single Action Army - 2nd Generation that has been MASTER ENGRAVED and used by Colt for Advertising!
According to the Colt Factory Letter, this example (58294SA) was shipped to Colt's Firearms - Dept. 701 (Advertising Department) Hartford Connecticut apart of a 1 gun shipment!
This 2nd Generation Colt Single Action Army represents an extraordinarily rare convergence of factory provenance, elite artistry, and intentional presentation that is almost never encountered. Master engraved by Denise Thirion, one of Colt’s most respected modern engravers, this revolver transcends standard factory embellishment and enters the realm of true Colt showcase pieces. The significance is elevated even further by the factory letter documenting shipment to Colt Advertising Department, a destination historically reserved for firearms intended to exemplify Colt’s highest standards of craftsmanship, aesthetics, and brand identity—often used for catalogs, trade displays, executive presentations, or internal reference. Unlike standard production or even typical factory-engraved SAAs, examples prepared for Colt’s own advertising purposes were never meant to be commonplace; they were created to represent the very best Colt could produce at the time. The combination of 2nd Generation SAA lineage, documented advertising-department provenance, and confirmed master engraving by Denise Thirion places this revolver in an exceptionally small class—one that appeals not only to Colt collectors, but to advanced students of factory history who recognize that firearms of this caliber were never intended for volume sale, but rather to define Colt excellence itself.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action Army - 2nd Generation
Serial: 58294SA
Date of Manufacture: 1971
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Finish: Blue with Color Case Hardened Frame - Hand Scroll Master Engraved
Barrel Length: 4 ¾"
Optics/Sights: Integral Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Black Composition with Rampant Colt and Eagle Motif
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / This revolver features hand scroll engraving by Expert Engraver Denise Thirion. The backstrap is stamped “COLT'S SHOW GUN.” The signature is on the front of the frame.
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. The Colt Advertising Department played a highly specialized and historically important role within Colt, serving as the internal steward for the company’s public image and brand presentation. Firearms shipped to this department were not ordinary production pieces; they were carefully selected or specially prepared examples intended to represent Colt at its absolute finest. These revolvers were used for factory photography, catalogs, trade shows, executive displays, and reference standards—pieces meant to visually and symbolically define Colt quality for the buying public and industry insiders alike. Because these firearms were never produced for routine commercial distribution, only a minute number were ever documented as being shipped to the Advertising Department. As a result, Colts with factory letters confirming this destination occupy an elite tier of collectibility, as they represent guns retained or utilized directly by the factory to showcase craftsmanship rather than to simply fulfill an order. Denise Thirion is widely regarded as one of Colt’s premier modern master engravers, known for her exceptional command of traditional American scrollwork, precise line execution, and an unmistakable balance between coverage and elegance. Her engraving reflects the highest standards of Colt’s Custom and exhibition-level work, drawing direct lineage to the great factory engravers of earlier eras while maintaining a refined, contemporary execution. Thirion-engraved firearms are sought after not only for their visual beauty, but for the consistency, depth, and intentional artistry evident in her work—qualities that cannot be replicated by production or lightly embellished examples. When her engraving is paired with documented factory significance, such as an Advertising Department shipment, the result is a revolver that stands apart as both a work of art and a historical artifact, coveted by advanced collectors who recognize true Colt master-level provenance.
Model: Single Action Army - 2nd Generation
Serial: 58294SA
Date of Manufacture: 1971
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Finish: Blue with Color Case Hardened Frame - Hand Scroll Master Engraved
Barrel Length: 4 ¾"
Optics/Sights: Integral Blade Front and Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Black Composition with Rampant Colt and Eagle Motif
Action: Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / This revolver features hand scroll engraving by Expert Engraver Denise Thirion. The backstrap is stamped “COLT'S SHOW GUN.” The signature is on the front of the frame.
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. The Colt Advertising Department played a highly specialized and historically important role within Colt, serving as the internal steward for the company’s public image and brand presentation. Firearms shipped to this department were not ordinary production pieces; they were carefully selected or specially prepared examples intended to represent Colt at its absolute finest. These revolvers were used for factory photography, catalogs, trade shows, executive displays, and reference standards—pieces meant to visually and symbolically define Colt quality for the buying public and industry insiders alike. Because these firearms were never produced for routine commercial distribution, only a minute number were ever documented as being shipped to the Advertising Department. As a result, Colts with factory letters confirming this destination occupy an elite tier of collectibility, as they represent guns retained or utilized directly by the factory to showcase craftsmanship rather than to simply fulfill an order. Denise Thirion is widely regarded as one of Colt’s premier modern master engravers, known for her exceptional command of traditional American scrollwork, precise line execution, and an unmistakable balance between coverage and elegance. Her engraving reflects the highest standards of Colt’s Custom and exhibition-level work, drawing direct lineage to the great factory engravers of earlier eras while maintaining a refined, contemporary execution. Thirion-engraved firearms are sought after not only for their visual beauty, but for the consistency, depth, and intentional artistry evident in her work—qualities that cannot be replicated by production or lightly embellished examples. When her engraving is paired with documented factory significance, such as an Advertising Department shipment, the result is a revolver that stands apart as both a work of art and a historical artifact, coveted by advanced collectors who recognize true Colt master-level provenance.
Contents:
As you can see from the many high-resolution photos, this example remains virtually UNTOUCHED, showing absolutely no signs of consumer use or handling. Additionally, it will ship with the Colt box, factory Colt letter, and all other contents 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
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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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.
