Summer 2026 Premier Firearms & Militaria Auction
August 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, & 9th, 2026
This auction will feature an outstanding collection of items spanning multiple categories including Modern, Military, Sporting, & Antique firearms & militaria! Below is just a small grouping of select highlights from the massive offering to be featured in this upcoming sale!
RARE 3-DIGIT COLT NAVY GRIPPED 1871-72 OPEN-TOP CHAMBERED IN .42 STETSON CAL
01-29427 | Cal 42 Stetson | S# 179
Manufactured for only 18 months between February 1872 & June 1873, the 1872 Open-top Colt was a transitional model revolver which bridged the gap between the Richards Mason Conversion, & the new solid frame Colt Peacemaker. Total production did not exceed 7000, making it one of the rarest of all Colts. This early example, Serial #179, is one of the few that letters from Colt as a “.42 STETSON” Caliber, as opposed to .44 R.F. This gun is pictured on page 237 of Sutherland & Wilson’s “THE BOOK OF COLT FIREARMS” as an example of one manufactured w/ the rare 1851 Navy size grips. It is believed that only about 425 do not have the larger 1860 Army size grips. In addition, the frame has the earlier “COLTS PATENT” stamp, rather than the patent dates themselves. The unrebated cylinder retains approximately 50% of the Naval engagement battle scene & all serial numbered parts are original & matching. All markings are clear & crisp. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Colt factory letter stating the following: Colt factory letter stating the following: Serial Number: 179 / Caliber: .42 Stetson / Barrel Length: 7 1/2″ / Finish: Blue / Type of Stocks: Wood / Shipped To: Cooper, Harris & Hodgkins / Address: New York, New York / Date of Shipment: July 25, 1872 / Number of Same Type Guns in Shipment: 50. Also a copy of page 237of “The Book of Colt Firearms”. STATUS: ANTIQUE.
