A Class Factory Engraved Colt Python 2 1/2″ .357 Magnum Double Action Revolver, Box & Letter
Sold For: $9,115
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 16826E
Year of Manufacture: Manufactured 1976, Shipped 1977
Caliber: .38 Special and .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “PYTHON .357 / .357 MAGNUM CTG.” The crane cut is marked “16826E” over two slash marks and the crane is marked “16826 E”. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” The left grip frame is marked “LT. ENG. / NS 4 2”. The right grip frame is marked “M”. The Verified Proof on the front left of the trigger guard bow and an “A” on the left rear. The frame, barrel and cylinder are Class “A” factory standard level scroll engraved.
Barrel Length: 2 ½”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade pinned to an elevated base on a ventilated rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut with gold colored Colt medallions. The butt of the left grip has a compression mark. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: All Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is an extremely faint dragline on the cylinder. There is light surface erosion on the sides of the front sight blade. The screw heads are sharp. The left rear side plate screw is lightly marked from use. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The single and double actions function correctly. We did not fire this handgun.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in its original box with a factory letter which states that this gun was Class A Standard Level Factory Scroll Engraved. It also documents that this revolver was originally shipped to M&N Distributors in Torrance, California on January 25th 1977. The letter is in Excellent condition. The box has the original end label which correctly describes this pistol. The label is peeling back and has tape on it. The box has worn and frayed edges. There is tape holding the end flaps on. There are some rips and tears. The foam is sound with light staining and marks. There are a few chips off the edges. Inside the box is a manual with information about pistol shooting and a Colt Authorized Warranty Service Stations sheet. The box rates in Fair condition. The paperwork rates in bout Fine Condition.
Our Assessment: The Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, the same year as Smith & Wesson’s M29 .44 Magnum. The Python targeted the premium revolver market segment and some firearm collectors and writers such as Jeff Cooper and Ian V. Hogg have described the Python as the finest production revolver ever made. This particular pistol was factory engraved and has a deep blue finish which has only the lightest dragline on the cylinder. This is a true collector’s piece. With its 2 ½” barrel and engraving, it is a beautiful pistol to own, collect and display. Don’t let this slip by.
