This is one of the earliest Colt Model 1877 DA revolvers that we have ever offered at auction. The revolver has the desirable 3 1/2 inch ejector less barrel with the desirable "etched" barrel panel caliber markings. The holster that accompanies this wonderful revolver is in superb condition itself as made by the C.G. Gallup Company circa 1880, that has the large flat tongue with the double loops on the front. It is marked with the makers name on the two front loops and then was hand carved by the previous owner with the various "101 ranch" markings as follows; the front of the back flap is marked "MEXICO CITY" with the front of the holster carved, "101 RANCH SHOW", with the makers name partially stamped out by the previous owner. The back of the holster is also carved: "Jean P. Ellington/101 RANCH" with a intertwined JPE" initials. The lower tow area is also carved "101". The face and back side of the holster have also been lightly carved with a fine single line border around the edges. The 101 Ranch was originally founded in 1893 by Colonel George Washington Miller, a veteran of the Confederate Army. It was located near the modern-day Ponca City, Oklahoma encompassing over 110,000 acres and was the birthplace of the 101 Ranch "Wild West Show" and one of the early focal points of the oil rush in northeastern Oklahoma. It was the largest diversified farm and ranch in America at the time. The 101 Wild West Show would later merge with the Buffalo Bill Wild West show for financial reasons. This revolver was manufactured in 1877 (the first year of production) and as noted has a 3 1/2 inch barrel marked with the two-line address on top and the etched caliber markings on the left side. The left side of the frame has the three-line/three-patent dates. It has a nickel plated finish with niter blue small parts. It has the small round blade front and frame groove rear sight. The barrel, cylinder, frame, trigger guard and back strap have the unique and matching serial number of "31". The loading gate is marked with a partial assembly number "6". It is accompanied by a survey sheet of the pistol and a short listing of the features and markings of the rare early pistol and holster.

Very fine as partially replated (cylinder) with the balance of revolver retaining 90% of the original nickel plated finish with some minor flaking on the edges and high spot overall. Although fairly complete the nickel has turned to a slightly cloudy finish. The grips are in very good condition with a nice antique appearance overall with minor age/drying cracks on the butt of the grips, with the checkered diamonds on the lower sides of the grips having worn off. The various screws and smaller parts all retain 95% of their heat blued finish. The markings are clear and sharp. Mechanically functions intermittently and is missing the half cock notch. The holster is also in fine condition with nice clear distinct markings and additional enhancement sharp and distinct. The stitching is still tight and intact. A very nice early Colt model 1877 revolver and "101 Ranch" Wild West Show holster rig.