Colt Single Action Army 1st Generation .45 Colt Revolver – 1912, Factory Letter, 4 3/4"

This is a factory-lettered 1st Generation Colt Single Action Army shipped in 1912 as a one-gun shipment to W.H. Hoegee Company of Los Angeles, California. The exact auction listing confirms the Colt letter details, matching serial number 324479, .45 Colt chambering, 4 3/4" barrel, blue finish, and Curio & Relic status. Comparable 1st Generation examples vary widely by originality, finish, and grips; the replacement eagle grips and gray patina keep this one from the very top tier, while the Colt letter, matching numbers, sharp markings, and crisp bore keep it very desirable.

Description

This 1912 Colt Single Action Army Revolver is a classic 1st Generation Colt chambered in .45 Colt with the highly desirable 4 3/4" barrel. According to the included Colt factory letter, this revolver shipped on October 1, 1912 to W.H. Hoegee Company in Los Angeles, California as a one-gun shipment, adding strong collector appeal.

The revolver retains its correct two-line barrel address, two-line patent legend with Colt pony on the frame, and matching serial numbers. The finish has aged honestly, with the frame showing a soft gray patina and traces of case color, while the barrel retains approximately 70% blue with thinning mostly on the left side. The cylinder shows patina with flashes of blue, including strong blue remaining in the flutes.

Mechanically, this example is described as retaining four strong clicks with a solid half-cock position. The bore is noted as crisp and clean, making this a strong candidate for collectors looking for a lettered 1st Generation Colt with honest age, sharp markings, and documented factory history. The eagle grips are later replacements but fit well and give the piece a handsome period-style look.

Specifications