Info needed on Colt-------------

[MADDOG]

I found a Colt Official Police ser.# 446xx. It appears to be in good condition, 85 to 90% and is 38 special. It doesn't have the correct grips. What is the year of manufacture and a ball park price? Thanks

 

[Coyote3855]

Official Police designation started with Serial # 513216 in 1927. The Official Police was a continuation of the Army Special serial number range. Are you sure about the serial # and that it's an Official Police?

I have a frankengun that has a Officer's Model frame and an OP barrel. The serial # is in the 350XXX range, correct for an Officers Model but out of sync for an OP.

I have an OP, blued, 4" barrel, original grips that are are worn. I gave about $200 for it.

 

[MADDOG]

Yes the serial # is 4466x. That number can be seen on the crane when I open the cylinder. Its the only number I can find. Is there anywhere else to look for numbers? I found some information that Colt stopped production of the OP and then started it up again. I can't find any info about those few years. This gun doesn't have the Colt logo on the gun no where, although the usual markings are on the barrel. As you can tell I am not familiar with Colt revolvers. It has a 4" barrel.

 

[Sniper X]

You can call Colts 800 number and get the date of manufacture free over the phone in seconds. Plus they can tell you what model the gun is for certain. I did it with both my Python and the SP1 Carbine.

 

[Coyote3855]

Here's where I look for serial number/date information.

http://www.proofhouse.com

I don't have any of my Colts with me at the moment, but the numbers are on my OP's and my 1967 Detective Special are on the crane as you describe.

Colt did re-start serial number on the Official Police in 1969 but those numbers had a letter at either the start or end of the serial number. Check out proofhouse.com and see if any of those numbers line up with what you have. My DA Colts all have the pony right behind the cylinder release.

If you call Colt, let us know what you find out.

 

[MADDOG]

Ya'll wouldn't have the 800 number for Colt would you?

 

[dfariswheel]

The serial number is stamped in three places.

1. On the frame just below the barrel where the cylinder crane seats.

2. On the crane opposite the frame number.

3. Inside the side plate.

There's a problem with the serial number.
446xx it too early for either an Official Police OR an Army Special.
The Army special serial numbers were continued from the old New Army & Navy and started at number 291000 in 1908.
The Official Police was a continuation of the Army Special and started at 513216 in 1927.

It's possible you actually have a New Army & Navy, to which someone installed a later Official Police barrel.
If it is, the serial number would be stamped on the butt not on the frame as above.

Here's Colt's phone number. CHECK THE FRAME FOR THE CORRECT SERIAL NUMBER BEFORE CALLING.

(860) 236-6311

 

[MADDOG]

I went back and checked the numbers again. There is the number 44660 twice and a E&L also there. Does the E or L mean anything? The E&L are under the 44660 number and not in line with them. Thanks

 

[dfariswheel]

The other letters are factory inspectors stamps.