HELP !! Old Colt SA

[roninrlm]

HELP Guys

Looking for info and value of a Colt 1st gen. I have been offered a Colt 1st gen, 44/40, Nickle plated (looks factory), wood grips, great condition, Sr # 36,XXX-1877, acid etched pannel (Colt frontier Six Shooter) good condition also.

Now the bad part. The barrel has been cut down from 7 1/2 to 6". How much does this effect the value. Also does anyone have a idea as to the Value and buying price for this pistol.

The owner wants me to make him a offer (&^*%$(&^) and I just can't get him to price it. I know what he is trying.

HELP
Ronin

 

[Dr.Rob]

On a first generation a cut down won't affect it THAT much. And for the price I suspect he's asking, you should make sure the gun is lettered.

.44-40 was a 'special' caliber in 1877 and not widely available (based on R.L. Wilson's book) as such its possible this is a fake put together on another frame. I would hazard this could be a $5 grand plus gun , maybe even ten if it's real. But I would take pics, send them off to Bonham's or another reputable auction house and the http://www.coltforum.com before I made an offer.