Extremely Rare Colt SAA “Smokeless Frame” with Original Case Hardening and Mint-Condition .32-20 Barrel – Includes Colt Archive Letter

Colt Revolver – Single Action Army (Smokeless Frame)

Manufacture Date: 1898 – Caliber: .32-20 WCF – Features original case hardening, a mint-condition ("mirror") bore, and a Colt archive letter.

It is exceptionally rare to find a Colt Single Action Army from 1898—featuring the "smokeless frame"—in such a remarkable state of preservation, retaining its original case hardening and exceptional mechanical condition. A genuine American collector's piece that is rarely offered for sale.

History

The Colt Single Action Army Model 1873, better known as the "Peacemaker," is one of the most iconic revolvers in American history. Introduced by Colt's Manufacturing Company in 1873, it quickly became the weapon of choice for the U.S. Cavalry, sheriffs, pioneers, and cowboys, embodying the spirit of the conquest of the American West. To capitalize on the success of Winchester cartridges, Colt introduced the .32-20 Winchester Center Fire (WCF) caliber starting in 1884. Valued for its accuracy, low recoil, and compatibility with Winchester rifles, it became the third most produced caliber for the Single Action Army, ranking behind the legendary .45 Colt and .44-40 WCF.

Starting in 1892, Colt adopted the new "Smokeless Frame" design, recognizable by its through-cylinder pin secured by a latch. Manufactured using improved steels designed to handle the advent of smokeless powder in the early 20th century, this transitional variant—produced prior to 1900—is today one of the most sought-after models among collectors.

Our Model

This Colt Single Action Army "Smokeless Frame" in .32-20 WCF caliber is in exceptional condition.

Its original case-hardening remains largely visible on the frame, while the barrel and cylinder retain a significant portion of their period-correct Colt blue finish—a feature that has become particularly rare on a revolver over 125 years old. The markings are perfectly crisp and consistent with this late production run: the two-line Colt address, caliber designation, proof marks, and the finely stamped famous Colt "colt" logo.

The cylinder edges remain remarkably sharp, and the drag line is extremely faint, indicating minimal use. Serial number 181XXX—found on the frame, trigger guard, and butt—confirms a manufacture date of 1898. The original grips are in superb condition and fit perfectly.

Mechanically, this Colt is flawless, featuring the four distinct "Colt clicks," precise indexing, and a complete absence of play or cylinder gap. Its 4¾-inch barrel in .32-20 WCF boasts a mirror-like bore with deep, crisp rifling—condition that can be described as near-mint.

An exceptional Colt Single Action Army "Smokeless Frame" that combines rare original condition, the legendary Colt case-hardening, and status as one of the most desirable variants in American arms collecting.

This firearm comes with a Colt Archives letter confirming its configuration. Weapon sold with its official classification certificate as a Category D historical weapon, issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.