Classic First Generation, Pre-World War II Colt Single Action Army Revolver, .45 Colt caliber, desirable 5½” barrel, serial number 345611, made in 1923. A superb condition example that correctly shows matching serial numbers on the frame, (and under the grips) trigger guard and back strap. It is correctly marked on the barrel top “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.” and has the correct “45 COLT” caliber marking on the left side of the barrel plus the patent dates of 1871, 1872 and 1875 on the left side of the frame. During this time, Colt produced only small numbers of Single Action Army revolvers because “Modern” shooters had begun to transition away from thumb cocking or single action revolvers to large and small double action (simply pull the trigger and the revolver’s hammer cocks and fires in one motion) and automatic pistols like the famed Model 1911 .45 ACP and the small, hammerless pocket models in .25ACP, .32ACP and .380 ACP calibers. Interestingly, in 1923 a total of only about 1,900 Single Action Army revolvers were manufactured where during previous years at the turn of the 20th century yearly production could be ten times that number. It is also interesting to note that in areas of the western United States- such as Montana, Wyoming, Arizona, New Mexico etc.- that were still considered “wild” and “frontier” the Colt Single Action Army revolver remained very popular. Arizona and Texas rangers were known to use the Single Action Army right up to World War II, and during the war General Patton carried an engraved Colt Single Action Army. This is a superior example that recently came out of Arizona. As was fairly common during this time, the grips were changed to thick, heavy stag that are in excellent condition and now display a lovely mellow yellowed patina from age. The cylinder, barrel, grip straps, butt and trigger guard retain almost all of the deep blue and only the outside portion of the ejector housing shows minor flaking/freckling of the blue from holster carry. Importantly, the frame retains fine case colors on the right side, the front portion ahead of the cylinder and on the hammer sides. Similarly, the left side displays fine case colors also. The screws and cylinder pin retain excellent bright blue and the action is very tight with an excellent, bright minty bore. This is a wonderful nearly 100 year old Colt Single Action in desirable .45 Colt caliber that would be a prize for any advanced Colt or Old West collection. Serial Number: 345611. This firearm qualifies as a Curio & Relic firearm, and requires FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.