I paid $250 for my 1951 Cobra about seven years ago. It was in a gunshop and came with a lefty Bianchi holster. It sounded like you were describing my gun. I love this gun. It obviously was carried constantly yet is mechanically perfect. I figured a police off duty gun. Even the "Coltwood" plastic grips are worn smooth. I was hesitant at first but I swapped stags for it. Pictured here with my chopped 1917 Colt.
BTW, that nickel 1975 Cobra is beautiful. Quite a score and much more interesting than an AR.
EDIT: My mistake, old cop. I was referring to the '51 Cobra Guitslo described, but same applies to yours, especially since you carried and relied on one, too, like whoever owned mine.