Beschreibung:

There are many legendary stories within the gun collecting community, none more remarkable than the 4 Colts, and their story being offered in this lot. Known as "A FAMILY REUNION" among collectors of Colt's invincible Single Action Army. In the early 1970s well-known collector Mel Guy purchased 2 of these revolvers at the Sahara Antique Gun Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, knowing they were from the same shipment of 4. Later, he found a third gun in the exact same configuration and condition as the pair. At the time he did not know this gun was also from the same shipment. However, his "little voice" said it might very well be, so he purchased it. Mel later ordered a Colt Archival letter to learn the 3rd gun he had purchased was indeed from the same shipment of January 20, 1923. Having 3 guns from a shipment of 4 guns of the same type is a remarkable collecting feat. What came later is even more remarkable. The good fortune of finding the 3 guns launched a relentless search to find the 4th revolver. One evening, after searching for 3 - 1/2 years, Mel received a phone call from another well-known collector/dealer, saying he had found the missing gun. That last revolver is serial number 344413, and was complete with the original box numbered to the gun. In the July 1976 edition of "ARMS GAZETTE" magazine is an article co-authored by Ron Graham and Mel Guy, describing the guns and the story titled "A FAMILY REUNION". A copy of the magazine is included with this lot. Presented here are all 4 revolvers serial numbers, 344537, 344599, 344613, and 344413 including the original box. All 4 guns are configured identically and in surprisingly same condition. Featuring 7 - 1/2" barrels with left side roll die marked "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER .44-40". Finished blue with case hardened frames and hammers. Fitted with grips that are most collectors' favorite, stunning 2-piece checkered walnut with Fleur-de-Lis borders and silver, deep dished Colt medallions. All 4 revolvers have same Colt inspection stamp number "2" located inside the hammer slots. Accompanying the revolvers are 2 sets of Colt Archival Letters, for each serial number. All eight letters document same configurations, sold to F.P. Leffingwell, shipped to Von Lengerke & Antoine, Chicago, Illinois on January 20, 1923 in a shipment of 4 guns of the same type. CONDITION: All 4 revolvers are nearly mint overall, retaining approximately 97% original bright blue and case color. Grips and also near mint showing little to no wear. Actions are tight and crisp. Bores are bright and clean. Serial number 344413 shows blue wear on the barrel left side at the muzzle, possibly from being stored in its original box. These guns simply do not get much better and are worthy of the most advanced Colt collection. -MKS- Name Value Accessories (A) Box Barrel Length (ALL) 7 - 1/2" Caliber/Bore (ALL) .44-40 WCF FFL Status Curio & Relic Manufacturer (ALL) Colt Model (ALL) Frontier Six Shooter Paperwork (ALL) Factory Letter, Arms Gazette Magazine Serial Number (A) 344413 (B) 344537 (C) 344599 (D) 344613