Rare Documented Historic Factory Engraved Colt Police Positive Double Action Revolver with Factory Ivory Grips, Original Box and Factory Letter

Estimate Price: $14,000 - $22,500

Description

Manufactured in 1937. This revolver features light factory floral scroll engraving on the barrel sides, frame, cylinder flats, trigger guard and the back strap. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line address/patent dates with a scallop border and the left side is marked "COLT POLICE/POSITIVE .38" amid the floral scroll engraving. The Rampant Colt is on the left side of the frame and the matching serial number is on the frame and crane. Standard blade front and frame notch rear sights, and fitted with smooth ivory grips with Colt medallions. The accompanying factory letter verifies the caliber, 4 inch barrel, nickel finish, ivory grips, factory engraving and that it was shipped as 1 on internal factory order number 17746/1 and shipped to the State of Tennessee, Robert Robinson, Pazewell, (typo its actually Tazewell), Tennessee on March 15, 1937. According to included documents, Robinson was a member of the Tennessee State Police in the late 1920s and 1930s, and later was a special guard for the Fork Ridge Coal & Coke Company. Robinson was one of 4 victims killed in 1941 in what was known as "The Mingo Massacre" by some and "The Battle of Fork Ridge" by others. The location of the confrontation was result of a mining strike and took place in the exact location of the Cherokee slaughter of the Mingo Indians and the Quarterhouse battle. Accompanying the revolver are copies of the events of the Fork Ridge Cola Mine War of 1941, Mr. Robinson's obituary and a number of newspaper articles relating to the incident. The revolver is complete with the original black hinged lid box numbered to the gun, with correct "ENGRAVED" and "NICKEL FINISH" outer labels.

Condition

Excellent. The revolver retains 95% original nickel finish with some minor flaking on the cylinder, frame, and heel and toe of the back strap. The grips are fine with exception of a moderate chip on the bottom right panel, a few minor age cracks on the bottoms and a pleasant mellow patina. The markings and engraving are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. The box is very good with some edge and corner wear, and a small amount of material loss.

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This Colt sold in 2013 for $17,250. The Auction site was located HERE!!

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