SOLD - Lt. Richard Saufley's Colt Model 1895 Revolver - With Provenance

Description

8/15/22 - This is a Colt Model 1895 revolver that belonged to Lt. Richard Saufley, one of the United States' first Naval Aviators and likely the most famous person you've never heard of. He flew in missions in the Mexican and Nicaraguan Campaigns and was the first to test a method of launching planes from a barge that eventually lead to the design of the modern aircraft carrier! The US Navy eventually named a battleship and a naval airfield after Saufley. To learn more about Richard's life and amazing military career, visit the link below to watch our Youtube video that features this gun. The listing includes a gun, leather (with matching serial number on the back), a print-out of an email from the Colt factory, a letter from the gentleman we purchased the gun from, a Mexican campaign medal, a Nicaraguan campaign medal, one of Richards shoulder boards, a couple of Richard's collar tabs, Richard's original signature (protected by acrylic), and an original handwritten letter from Richard's wife, Helen. In the letter, she explains that Richard got this gun from a friend in the Navy, Carl Henkel. Marked on the bottom of left grip panel is Carl's name. On the right grip panel is "OSS Oregon", where Carl served in the Navy. On the inside of both grip panels are Richard Saufley's initials. The gun itself is in very nice condition. There isn't too much actual finish loss, but there is spotty discoloration, brown patina, and some freckling throughout. The cylinder is tight, and the action is smooth. Excellent bore. This is a fantastic piece of history!

 

https://youtu.be/KhOZP7Mg6ug