Colt Single Action Army 2nd Gen Pair 45/.44 SAA Engraved Revolvers 1969 C&R
SOLD FOR: $10,500
WOA#: WY231010CFM017 & WY231010CFM018
Make: Colt
Model: SAA (2nd Gen) Matched Pair
Serial Numbers: 98589SA & 50863SA
Year of Manufacture: 1978 & 1969
Caliber: One is .44 Special. The other is .45 Colt.
Action Type (Both): Single Action Side-Gate Loaded Revolvers
Markings (Same on both aside from respective SN and caliber): The right side of the barrels are marked “BOUCHER”. The left sides are marked with their respective caliber. The .44 SPL revolver has a 2 on the rear of the side loading gate. The bottom of the frames are marked with their respective serial numbers. Both are engraved on the barrel, frame, cylinder, hammer, and loading gate with the same matching patterns. The left side of the grip frames have matching serials to their respective revolver.
Barrel Length (Both): 4 3/4”
Sights/Optics (Both): The front sight is a steel quarter-round blade set into the barrel with serrated face. The rear sight is a square-notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth bone panels. There are no chips. The .44 SPL has a small fracture on the bottom of the left grip. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good-Fine condition.
Type of Finish (Both): Stainless
Finish Originality (Both): Original
Bore Condition (Both): The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp, and there is no erosion.
Overall Condition: These handguns retain about 95% of their finish. There is some minor scattered corrosion throughout in the engravings and metal parts. The cylinder has a turn-line through the finish along with the same type of wear found elsewhere. Pins are unmarred, and all markings are clear. The screw heads are tool marked but retain strong slots. Overall, these revolvers rate in Very Good-Fine condition.
Mechanics (Both): The actions function correctly. The cylinders lock with light play at each stop. We did not fire these revolvers. The mechanics are Excellent. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories (Both): These revolvers come in a Leather Wrapped Wood Presentation Case by Huey. The case comes with engraved takedown tools, engraved brush, engraved oiler, engraved brass weight, and .44 SPL and .45 Colt snap caps.
Our Assessment: The history of Colt’s Engraved Single Action Army (SAA) revolvers is a fascinating journey through American firearms and cultural history. Introduced in 1873, the Colt Single Action Army, also known as the Peacemaker, quickly became one of the most iconic firearms in the United States, playing a significant role in the narrative of the American West.
Engraved versions of the Colt SAA emerged almost as soon as the gun was introduced. These embellishments were not just decorations; they were a form of artistry, a means through which a functional tool was transformed into a personalized statement piece. In the late 19th century, engraving was a way for owners to showcase their status and individuality. Engraved SAAs were often carried by lawmen, outlaws, and well-to-do civilians alike, and they became symbols of personal style and status.
The art of engraving Colts was, and remains, a highly skilled craft. Early engravers like Gustave Young, Cuno Helfricht, and Louis D. Nimschke became famous for their intricate and beautiful designs, which often included scrollwork, geometric patterns, and occasionally images of animals or scenes from the Old West. These artisans would work on the guns by hand, turning each piece into a unique work of art.
Throughout the 20th century and into the 21st, the tradition of engraving Colt Single Action Armies continued. The advent of machine engraving brought about new styles and techniques, but hand engraving remained a sought-after and revered art form. Today, engraved Colt SAAs are highly prized by collectors, not only for their historical significance but also for the craftsmanship and artistry they represent. They stand as enduring symbols of American history, capturing the spirit of the Old West and the evolution of the American firearm tradition.
This collective pair represents a beautiful set of engraved 2nd generation Single Action Army Revolvers. The small details in the artwork really set this pair apart with the hidden animal heads that blend seamlessly with the rest of the scrollwork. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
