COLT SAA, Gen 1, Cal. 44-40 WCF

COLT Single Action Army – First Generation (1923)

Calibre .44-40 Winchester Center Fire (.44 WCF) – nickel-plated finish

Brief history

The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, also known as the Peacemaker, was introduced in 1873 and became one of the most iconic firearms of the American West. Made by Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company, the model was used by soldiers as well as by civilians, sheriffs, ranchers and frontiersmen. The .44-40 WCF variant, introduced in 1878, was marketed as the Colt Frontier Six Shooter. Its popularity was due in part to the ability to use the same ammunition in the revolver and in Winchester carbines chambered for .44-40. The first-generation Colt SAA was made between 1873 and 1941, and examples produced in the 1920s belong to the late period of this generation.

Features of the example shown

From the photograph supplied, the following can be seen:

- Nickel-plated finish, with visible signs of wear and patina.

- Calibre .44-40 WCF,

- Mother-of-pearl grips, a natural material

- Barrel of apparently about 5¾ inches

- Colt patent markings on the left side of the frame.

- Classic single-action mechanism, with a six-chamber cylinder.

Market valuation

Condition - Estimated value:

Later re-nickelled, replacement grips 1,500–2,300 €

Original nickel plating, good mechanical condition 2,500–3,500 €

Original configuration confirmed by Colt Factory Letter 3,500–4,500 €

These ranges are estimates, not confirmed transaction prices for the example photographed.

My preliminary estimate for the example shown: 2,200–3,000 €, assuming the mechanism is complete and working, the main parts are original and the finish does not conceal any major work.

Conclusion

This 1923 Colt Single Action Army in .44-40 is an interesting collector's piece from the final production period of the first generation. Its nickel finish and mother-of-pearl grips give it a distinctive character.

Nickel plating Original Colt

Grips Natural mother-of-pearl, factory original

Grip condition Excellent, no cracks or repairs

Mechanism Excellent, four distinct clicks

Calibre .44-40 WCF

Year of manufacture 1923

Serial number 345862

INDICATIVE MARKET ESTIMATE

4,500–6,000 €

Recommended asking price: 5,500 €