Wilbur Glahn Factory "A" Engraved Casehardened Colt SAA Revolver

Here is a Stunning, Near Mint, Wilbur Glahn Factory "A" Engraved First-Generation Colt Single Action Army Revolver with the Factory Letter that states the revolver was sold and shipped to Murta, Appleton & Co. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on September 1, 1939. This was the sole gun in the shipment. The letter also confirms the 5 ½ inch barrel in .38 caliber, plain wood stocks, and factory type “A” engraving with finish not listed. The blue and casehardened finish on this revolver is most certainly original. The revolver is featured in R.L. Wilson’s “The Colt Engraving Book, Volume Two” on page 583 where Wilbur Glahn is cited as the master engraver behind this work of fine Colt artistry. Though highly sought after today, the popularity of engraved firearms decreased in the late 19th century and into the 20th century. R. L. Wilson on page 385 of "The Colt Engraving Book, Volume One" wrote, "The grand total of engraved Single Action Army revolvers (excluding the Bisley Model and Flattop Target Model) from 1873 through 1940 is approximately 3,000. A number of these also included hand engraved inscriptions or monograms. For the period of Cuno Helfricht (through c. 1921) the total of factory engraved Single Action Army revolvers was approximately 2,550..." That leaves less than 500 for subsequent years leading up to World War II. Others estimate as many as 4,500 engraved First-Generation Single Action Army revolvers, but that still accounts for only approximately 1.26% of production, and very few remain in mint condition like this one. The revolver exhibits simple and beautiful factory “A” engraving consisting of flourishes of scrollwork with 25% coverage. The barrel has the one-line Colt Hartford address on top and “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .38 SPECIAL” on the left side. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates marking followed by a Rampant Colt. The left side of the trigger guard has the number “4” above the Colt factory triangle proof. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame and right side of the trigger guard and back strap under the grip panel. Matching assembly number “848” appears on the rear of the frame and loading gate. The revolver is fitted with a spectacular set of plain walnut grips. Brig Pemberton purchased the revolver in 1967 from M.R. Chafin for $900. How times have changed! More Pictures Coming Soon!