Lot 405

Early First Year Production Number "22" Colt Python with Letter

Previous image preload Next image preload

Early First Year Production Number "22" Colt Python with Letter

Estimate: $16,000 - $25,000

Starting Bid: $14,000

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 21, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Desirable Joe Bodrie Exhibition Shooter Loan Account Shipped Very Early First Year Production Two-Digit Serial Number "22" Colt Python Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter Manufactured in 1955, the first year of production for Colt's Python model revolver with an approximate serial number range of 1 to 299 as shown in the table on page 47 of the "Blue Book Pocket Guide for Colt Dates of Manufacture" by R. L. Wilson and Allen, with this very early example bearing the two-digit serial number "22". The included factory letter confirms this revolver's configuration, with a 6 inch barrel in .357 Magnum caliber, royal blue finish, and type of grips not listed, when sent as the only gun of its type in a shipment to the loan account of Mr. Joe Bodrie (a Colt exhibition shooter during the time) at 18221 Marsha Drive in Wyandotte, Michigan, on December 1, 1955. The factory letter also indicates that the revolver was returned to the factory on March 13, 1957, and subsequently sold as a "used, shopworn salesman's sample" to Joe Bodrie on the same day. Features fixed blade front and adjustable notch rear sights, the one-line Colt address on the right of the barrel, the two-line model and caliber designations on the left of the barrel, a Rampant Colt on the left of the frame, along with a Colt triangle "VP" factory proof and "J" on the left of the trigger guard. Matching two-digit "22" serial numbers on the frame and crane. Fitted with an extended shoe on the trigger and a pair of checkered walnut grips with gold washed Rampant Colt medallion inserts.

Manufacturer: Colt

Model: Python

BBL: 6 inch vent rib

Gauge: 357 Magnum

Finish: royal blue

Grips: walnut

Serial Number22

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

  • Provenance: Exhibition Shooter Joe Bodrie; Private Collection
  • Condition: Very fine overall, retaining 85% plus original bright blue finish with some plum coloration, cylinder drag lines, some light edge wear, minor specks of oxidation on the backstrap, clear markings, and well-defined grip checkering. Mechanically excellent. Overall an attractive original example of a very early first year production two-digit serial number Colt Python revolver that was loan account shipped to exhibition shooter Joe Bodrie!

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Rock Island Auction will contact you shortly after the auction has completed. We will arrange for shipping and or pickup.

Rock Island Auction Company

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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