Lot 3046

David F. Clark Inspected U.S. Colt Single Action Army Revolver

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David F. Clark Inspected U.S. Colt Single Action Army Revolver

Estimate: $3,500 - $5,500

Starting Bid: $3,000

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 23, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

David F. Clark Inspected U.S. Colt Single Action Army Revolver with John Kopec Letter Manufactured in 1880. The U.S. Ordnance Sub-Inspector during the 1880s period was David F. Clark, and his small "D.F.C." sub-inspection initials are stamped on the underside of the barrel, bottom of the frame above the serial number, side of the cylinder, and on the left butt of the grip. Renowned Colt historian and author John Kopec examined this revolver and summarized his conclusions in his included February 8, 2005, dated letter of authentication. The revolver was a new listing in Kopec's survey and falls between serial numbers 55183 (Artillery Model revolver) and 55234 (a civilian condemned revolver). Kopec states, "Historically, we could not locate this revolver's serial number in the National Archives records available to us. Most of the cited examples from within the 55000 serial number range are in the Artillery configuration, hence no information could be established as to where the subject revolver may have served during the Indian Wars. Only one example #55923 is recorded in these records from within the Indian Wars period, and this revolver is listed as belonging to Co. F, 6th Cavalry as of August 3, 1888. There is also the probability that the subject revolver had been issued to one of the state militia units... In looking over this revolver it is my opinion that it basically only deviates from originality in one respect, this being that its barrel has been privately shortened to the 5 1/2 [5 3/8] inch length and a dove-tailed front sight fitted." The top of the barrel has the one-line Colt Hartford address, and the left of the frame has the three-line patent date markings next to the "U.S." stamp. Matching visible full serial numbers are marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and butt, matching "5204" is on the cylinder and concealed area of the barrel, and assembly number "3239" is on the loading gate. The left of the grip has an "1880" date stamped above an oval bordered "DAL" (David A. Lyle) cartouche, and the right has a bordered "D.F.C" cartouche.

Manufacturer: Colt

Model: Single Action Army

BBL: 5 3/8 inch round

Gauge: 45 Long Colt

Finish: blue/casehardened

Grips: walnut

Serial Number55204

Class: Antique

  • Condition: Very good as a U.S. issued revolver that saw continued use out west, retains 20% original blue finish, strong patterns of original case colors on the forward sides of the frame, period refinished blue around the front sight, antiqued brown patina on the cylinder, and some minor pitting and freckling. The grip is fine, with well-defined edges, scratches and small dings, and clear cartouches. Mechanically functions.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000