The Colt Single Action Army is one of the most storied handguns in American history, prized by collectors and historians for its role in both military and civilian life. This specific presentation example stands out not only for its condition but for its documentary provenance linking it directly to Colt factory leadership and the U.S. Ordnance Department.

COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY (SAA)

Historic provenance and documented rarity

This FIRST GEN Pre-War/Post-War Colt SAA was assembled after World War II from pre-war manufactured parts and was presented in 1948 by Colt Vice President Benjamin Conner to U.S. Ordnance official William Bonkmeyer. Reference works by Don Wilkerson and John Kopec confirm that only 338 pre-war manufactured Colts were assembled after the war; this example is one of 162 in this configuration and one of only 41 presentation guns gifted by Colt in 1948. Factory correspondence notes the revolver was charged to “Arms Selling Expense” and delivered to Conner at the Hartford factory as part of a two-gun shipment dated May 26, 1948.

Markings and factory authentication

Authenticating features include the one-line Hartford address on the barrel, “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY 38 SPECIAL” marking on the left barrel, two-line patent dates and Rampant Colt on the frame, Colt factory triangle proof and “F” on the trigger guard (indicating assembly by Master Gunsmith Harry St. John), matching assembly number “322” on the loading gate and rear of frame, and full matching serials on frame, trigger guard, and backstrap with a partial cylinder stamp of “05.” The original Colt box, factory test target, and bore brush are included, and the receiver displays attractive case coloring.

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Technical notes and shooting considerations

The barrel is configured as a 5 1/2 inch chambered in .38 Special, a cartridge known for manageable recoil, reliable performance, and widespread ammunition availability. For collectors, the original markings, matching numbers, and documented presentation history are far more important than shooting potential; this revolver is notable because, aside from factory test fires, it is unfired and like new. The case-colored receiver and original accessories add to its museum-quality appeal.

Value and availability

Offered at $27,650.99, this Revolver-category piece represents a rare opportunity to acquire a documented, presentation Colt SAA with original packing and factory paperwork. Serious collectors prioritize provenance, matching assembly numbers, and original packaging—this example checks all those boxes.

For collectors and institutions seeking a well-documented presentation Colt with original factory proof and accessories, this is a standout example. Check current availability

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