Very Early Triple Lock

[.44 Fan]

Saw this at a local gun show this weekend. Owner was gracious enough to allow me to take the pictures and gave me permission to post them on this forum.
Any four inch N Frame gets my attention, but this one is something else. Originally blue, it has all of the earmarks of a customized Wolf and Klar gun, with the "scratched" engraving on the top of the barrel, top strap, the cylinder, and fancy pearl grips. The grips are amazing. But holy cow! Serial number 5! Could this be the earliest surviving Triple Lock? The gun has not been lettered. I think the "5'" was present under the extractor star, but I can't be sure. Lots of glare from the overhead fluorescent lights and the nickel, so forgive my photo quality.

Ken

 

[mojave30cal]

Wow, talk about pimped out! Very nice. Can you tell us what the seller was asking for this piece?

 

[.44 Fan]

Wow, talk about pimped out! Very nice. Can you tell us what the seller was asking for this piece?

Gun was not for sale. Owner wasn't sure what a realistic value would be.

 

[larkworthy]

Interesting BBQ revolver. I will take a run at a potential value. These guns have a small but loyal following. The revolver is obviously hurt by the excessive buffing/dripping refinish job. Lawmen and outlaws in the early 20th century in Texas routinely "enhanced" their revolvers this way. The low serial number is very interesting and the fact that it may be a factory 4" triple lock helps offset some of the condition issues. A factor letter is a must on this revolver to potentially bring the value from a $800-1000 wall hanger to something that could command 50% to 2x the value based on what the letter says.

Now to the grips, magnificent and important on their own. Has a Wolf & Klar look. The grips are easily worth $1500+ on their own.

Add these two together and you have a potential value. If it letters to someone important then the condition does not matter as much and it could command even higher values.

Just my thoughts. Others will have a different take.