Value of a 1st Generation Colt SAA x 2

[TnBigBore]

I have found what I fear may be a deal too good to be true. In a local shop there are two Colt SAA revolvers that are very old and appear to be in near pristine condition. Here are their specs:

1) 7.5" barrel, 45 Colt, black powder frame, nickel finish near perfect, lettering on barrel and frame as sharp as new, bore perfect, unmarked wood grips near perfect and not shrunken, beveled cylider locks up good, but not perfectly tight. Serial# puts it around 1894. Price is $1,695.

2) 4.75" barrel 38 WCF, newer frame, rounded trigger guard, nickel finish near perfect, lettering on barrel and frame look as new, what appear to be real stag grips, beveled cylinder locks up good, but not pefectly tight. Serial# puts it in the 1910s. Price is $1,695.

What do you all think? With the sharp lettering they do not appear to be refinished. I dont think the grips are original, but all else really looks like it could be. I am wary, not knowing too much about the old SAA pistols. Your input is appreciated.

 

[res1b3uq]

bluebook shows---ser # range 130,000 to 165,000 10% condition--$4,000, 90%condition $20,000. Subtract 35% for nickel. This is for #1 BE CAREFUL----------------Go here for comparison http://www.gunrunnerauctions.com/listings/details/index.cfm?itemnum=891635189

 

[SaxonPig]

Fake Colt SAAs based on Italian import guns abound.

Could they actually be refinished? Prices sound right for rebuilt guns.

Surprised a pro dealer wouldn't have a better idea of the value if the guns are what they first appear to be.

 

[Jim Watson]

Those prices would be a bargain if the guns are original. But a deal too good to be true usually is untrue.
Do you think the dealer would give you a money back guarantee that they will letter as factory nickel? Do you think he would extend that money back guarantee to an inspection by John Kopec or other expert?

 

[Old Fuff]

I have a friend that got stung badly on a mint Remington .44 New Army. This revolver consisted of a genuine Remington barrel mounted on an otherwise Italian revolver with the proof and other marks removed. The whole package was then reblued. An expert would have spotted it in a few seconds.

But he wasn't an expert, and took the seller at his word. :banghead:

 

[TnBigBore]

I deal with these folks regularly. They deal in super high volume, and I have gotten some ridiculously good deals there before. They know a little bit about a lot of different guns, but I have caught them way underpricing some models before ie: Winchester 94 410 NIB for $399, Marlin Camp 45 NIB for $299, Marlin 336ER $500 etc. They are honest folks though.