Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this BEAUTIFUL EYE-CATCHING post-war double-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Detective Special Third Issue!
Click here to view our other Live Auctions!
If you have missed out on this auction or are looking for a particular firearm, contact us. We have 100s of Collector Grade firearms (not on auction) in our inventory and available for immediate purchase.
Click here to let us know what firearms you are searching for!
This Colt Detective Special Third Issue includes a Certificate of Engraving from Jeff Flannery Engraving Co. The certificate is signed by Jeffrey W. Flannery, confirming that this particular example (with serial number A20678) features full coverage American scroll with star accent engraving, as well as 24K Pure Gold inlay on the cylinder and barrel and Gold plated parts.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Detective Special Third Issue
Serial: A20678
Date of Manufacture: 1969
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Blue with Gold Plated Parts
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: Ramped and Serrated Front with Frame Notched Rear
Stock/Grips: Genuine Stag with Gold Colt Medallions and Grip Screw
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / Features full coverage American scroll with star accent engraving by Jeff Flannery Engraving Co. and 24K Pure Gold inlay on the cylinder and barrel.
Model: Detective Special Third Issue
Serial: A20678
Date of Manufacture: 1969
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Blue with Gold Plated Parts
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: Ramped and Serrated Front with Frame Notched Rear
Stock/Grips: Genuine Stag with Gold Colt Medallions and Grip Screw
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / Features full coverage American scroll with star accent engraving by Jeff Flannery Engraving Co. and 24K Pure Gold inlay on the cylinder and barrel.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Detective Special, introduced in 1927, quickly became an iconic firearm known for its compact size, powerful performance, and reliability. Originally based on Colt’s popular Police Positive Special, which had been in production since 1907, the Detective Special was designed to meet the demands of law enforcement officers who required a small, concealable revolver. With a 2-inch barrel, the Detective Special became the preferred choice for police detectives, undercover agents, and off-duty officers. It was so synonymous with law enforcement that it earned the street nickname "a cop gun," and was often carried as a symbol of authority. Over the years, it became the "gold standard" for small defensive revolvers, particularly popular with civilian concealed carry holders. With a six-round capacity, excellent accuracy, and superior craftsmanship, the Detective Special remained the top choice for those seeking a reliable, high-quality revolver in a compact package.
The Detective Special underwent several updates during its long production run, with changes often classified by collectors into distinct "issues." The first issue, produced from 1927 to 1946, featured a square butt, which was later replaced with a round butt in 1933. These early models were highly praised for their smooth action and precision. In 1966, a significant modification was made with the introduction of the third issue, which featured a shortened grip frame that simplified production and was also shared by the Colt Agent. This change, along with a ramped and serrated front sight, grooved hammer spur, and a longer ejector rod, marked a shift in the model's design to improve functionality and ergonomics. These changes further solidified the Detective Special’s reputation as a reliable and easily concealable revolver. With its refined details, better fit and finish, and enhanced usability, the Detective Special continued to be a favorite among law enforcement and civilian shooters alike until it was eventually discontinued, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the finest small-frame revolvers ever made.
Contents:
Contents:
This example is in IMMACULATE condition, showing no evidence of consumer use or handling! Additionally, it will ship with a Certificate of Engraving signed by Jeffrey W. Flannery, 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.
Bryant Ridge also reserves the right to cancel any sales that may occur while gunbroker.com is experiencing technical issues that affects the entire site or a complete site outage, within an hour of the auction ending.
We have an amazing inventory of classic and collector firearms that we are adding to Gunbroker daily. Stay up to date on all of our latest auction by adding us to your favorite sellers list.
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.
