Lot 173

Factory Class "C" Engraved Colt Python Revolver with Case

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Factory Class "C" Engraved Colt Python Revolver with Case

Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000

Starting Bid: $4,500

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
June 27, 2026 5:00 PM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Factory Class "C" Engraved and Nickel Plated Colt Python Double Action Revolver with Case The Colt Python was the most popular of Colt's "Snake Guns" and remains one of the most widely known double action revolvers in American history. R. L. Wilson dubbed the Python the "Rolls-Royce of Colt revolvers," and Ian V. Hogg called it "the best revolver in the world." Python production ran for half a century from 1955 to 2005. They were the last of the Colt Custom Shop era revolvers. The Python features a distinctive large lugged vent rib barrel and "I" frame construction and was chambered for the revered .357 Magnum cartridge. It was a powerful, capable, and highly attractive design. In the words of Mark Keefe IV of the NRA, the Python is one of the "finest-looking handguns ever made." This appeal, along with the model's pop culture influence, ultimately led to its re-introduction in 2020, but it is the original Colt Pythons that remain highly sought after by collectors. Each is a testament to quality American manufacturing in the latter half of the 20th century. This stunning example was manufactured fifty years ago in 1976 while the nation was celebrating the bicentennial and features beautiful factory Class "C" engraving covering approximately 75% of the metal surfaces. It also features a fixed serrated ramped blade front and adjustable notch rear sights, standard Colt factory markings including matching full serial numbers on the frame and crane, "COLT ENG" marked on the left side of the grip frame under the panel, and a pair of checkered walnut grips with gold washed Rampant Colt medallion inserts. A Colt Custom Shop leatherette presentation case with a felt interior fitted for the revolver and a brass Great Seal of the U.S. pin marked "R.H.S." are included.

Manufacturer: Colt

Model: Python

BBL: 6 inch vent rib

Gauge: 357 Magnum

Finish: nickel

Grips: walnut

Serial Number35426E

Class: Modern Handgun

  • Condition: Excellent overall, retaining 98% plus original nickel plated finish with limited handling evidence, faint cylinder drag lines, minor flaking on the left of the hammer, and crisp engraving and grip checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is exceptionally fine with some limited minor storage wear.

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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