Colt Python 6" gen1 .357mag (Consignment)

The Golden Era of Finish: Mid-1970s Craftsmanship 

The Colt Python, serial 14365E, is a classic example of twentieth-century American revolver manufacturing. The placement of the "E" as a suffix at the end of the serial number isolates its production to 1975, marking the transition year when Colt shifted the letter modifier from a prefix to a suffix. The Python line, introduced in 1955, was designed as Colt's top-tier, premium .357 Magnum offering. This mid-1970s variant is highly regarded by collectors because it represents the final years of standard hand-fitted actions and the traditional, labor-intensive Royal Blue finish. To achieve this distinctive deep blue coloring, Colt technicians meticulously polished the raw steel on large canvas wheels treated with fine polishing compounds before the carbon steel underwent the chemical bath, creating a mirror-like depth that is difficult to replicate in modern production.

Condition and Action Highlights

Condition: Excellent. The highly polished Royal Blue finish is well-preserved across the frame, the 6-inch ventilated-rib barrel, and the full underlug. The piece displays no high-edge silvering, muzzle wear, or surface oxidation. The only visible cosmetic mark is a faint, superficial cylinder turn-line that has not cut through the bluing.

Metalwork: Mint condition factory Royal Blue. No thinning at the muzzle or sharp edges. An incredibly faint, nearly invisible cylinder turn line is present.

Furniture: Original checkered walnut target grips are in perfect condition with crisp checkering and vibrant gold medallions.

Mechanical: Timing is perfect. The action is smooth as silk, locking up like a bank vault as only a vintage Python can.

Provenance: Serial 14365E (1975 MFG). Features the "D" factory inspector stamp behind the crane.

Technical Specifications:

Manufacturer: Colt’s Manufacturing (Hartford, CT)

Model: Python

Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special

Barrel: 6" Ventilated Rib

Finish: Royal Blue