Colt Mod, 1903, 5" 38.D.A., Lanyard Ring

smitholdtimer · #1 03-11-2010, 08:43 PM

I handled this revolver today, it has been re-blued. (hammer & trigger included) Problem is that I have been unable to find it in the "Blue" book, not that this Book is the "HOLY GRAIL" as to value. I'm really looking to confirm that there is such a thing as appeared on the butt: Mod. 1903, ser.# 204261 and there is a lanyard ring installed in between the model designation and the serial number. If you will be so kind as to describe, as completely as possible, this specific model Colt revolver and its role in our history I surely would appreciate it. Many thanks to the Colt experts.

5Wire · #2 03-11-2010, 10:50 PM

From BBGV online version:

MODEL 1892 "NEW ARMY & NAVY" (2ND ISSUE)
similar to 1889 Navy, but double cylinder notches, double locking bolts, and shorter flutes, square cyl. release thumb catch, hard rubber (commercial models) or plain uncheckered wood (military models) grips, .32-20 WCF cal. (uncommon) added in 1905. Mfg. 1892-1907.

Grading
100% 98% 95% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
$1450 $1200 $950 $800 $500 $400 $300 $250 $225 $210 $195 $180
Add $100-$750 for U.S.N. markings, depending on condition.
Add 25% for 3 in. barrel.
Subtract $100-$200 for broken hard rubber grips or broken action.Models made before 1898 will bring a premium.

Models 1892, 1894, 1895, 1896, 1901, 1903 these were variations of the Model 1892, military model (.38 Long Colt only) values will approximate those shown above, while civilian models will be approx. 10%-25% less, depending on condition.

reddogge · #3 03-12-2010, 11:10 AM

I'm traveling this weekend so don't have my copy of Bob Best's book on these available but basically it's a later version of the Colt Model 1892 revolver. Most saw action in the Phillipines hence the scarcity of ones in pristine condition. They are a little delicate so don't make good revolvers to go to the range and bang away with as parts could be broken and they are difficult to find.

The butt sounds right. I'll post a couple of pics of mine for reference.

smitholdtimer · #4 03-12-2010, 12:21 PM

Many thanks to 5Wire and reddogge for the responses, the lower photos are identical to this gun, even the letter stamping made on side of the frame and the cylinder release, the stocks are wood and checkered so may not be original. reddogge, you notice the ser. # similarity to yours? Appreciate you guys.