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Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Historic Dalton Gang Documents

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:4,000.00 USD Estimated At:10,000.00 - 30,000.00 USD
Colt Single Action Army Revolver with Historic Dalton Gang Documents
Colt Single Action Army Revolver manufactured in 1876. A statement that accompanies the revolver states that it was carried by Gratton Dalton in the disastrous double bank robbery in Coffeyville, Kansas, on October 5, 1892. The Dalton gang consisting of Bob, Emmet and Gratton Dalton and two other outlaws attempted to rob two banks simultaneously - in their own home town. Although they wore disguises, the Daltons were recognized. In the gun battle that followed the robbery Bob, Gratton, their two partners and four townsmen were killed. Emmett Dalton was badly wounded. The old, handwritten document that accompanies the revolver states that this revolver was owned and carried by "Grat" Dalton when he was killed in the Coffeyville bank robbery and that the revolver was given to Dr. W.H. Wells "for his service in keeping his brother Emmett alive for hanging which never came to pass". Included with the revolver is an original CDV by "C.G. Glass, Photographer, Coffeyville, Ks." that shows the four dead robbers. The revolver originally had a blue and casehardened finish was nickel or silver-plated during the period of use. The revolver has a gray-brown age patina with traces of plated finish on protected areas of the trigger guard and backstrap. The revolver has one-piece walnut grips. The barrel is roll-stamped with the 'Condensed Block Letter Address': "-COLT'S PT.F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.-" in one line. The left side of the frame has the Colt 'Two Date in Two Line' patent markings. "45 CAL" is stamped on the left shoulder of the trigger guard. The assembly number "2944" is stamped on the inside of the loading gate. The full serial number, "24029" is stamped on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The partial serial number "4029" is stamped on the underside of the barrel and on the side of the cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match. An "H" inspection mark is stamped in the hammer well above the firing pin hole and a small "C" is stamped on the face of the cylinder. The revolver is fitted with the correct 'bulls eye' ejector rod head and hammer with elongated knurling on the spur. The historical notes concerning the revolver are written on the back of legal certification for a property transfer that took place in 1933. Included with the revolver, CDV and history statement and a number of property documents that are related to M.W. Miller, the seller who acquired it from a Martin Singleton who purchased the revolver from Dr. Wells around 1910. Complete in wooden case.
BBL: 7 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Finish: nickel
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 24029
Condition: Good. The revolver has been cleaned and touched up with cold blue with traces of period nickel plating remaining. The revolver has a gray-brown patina. There is light flash pitting on the cylinder flutes and faces and the front of the frame and forward portion of the top strap. There are some small dents in the top of the barrel to the right of the address. The markings show handling wear but are legible. The grip is in good condition with some minor dents and handling wear on the heels. The grip appears to have been re-oiled. The revolver action is crisp and functions perfectly. This is an example of quite possibly a historic Colt Single Action Army Revolver reportedly used by outlaw Gratton Dalton in the famous Coffeyville, Kansas double bank robbery. More research is needed in order to substantiate the documents. RIA does not guarantee this.