Description
Some guns you admire. Others you remember. But this pair—you talk about.
The Colt Single Action Army Engraved Sampler Pair (1982) is far more than a limited edition—it’s a love letter to the craft that made Colt a legend. Commissioned specifically for Stan Newman, head of Colt’s Parts Department at the time, this sequentially numbered duo brings together two of the company’s finest engravers in one historic, mirror-matched set.
One revolver bears the signature of Dennis Kies, marked “KIES COLT ENGRVR,” and finished with refined gold inlay accents—known as “Gold/A.” Its companion, engraved by George Spring, carries a cool silver tone (“Silver/B”) and the same master’s touch. Both are built on black powder–style frames, complete with heat-blued screws and small parts, a respectful nod to Colt’s 19th-century roots.
But these revolvers go deeper than craftsmanship. The back straps carry a 150th-anniversary commemorative design, while the left grips honor the pantheon of Colt engravers, inscribed with their names as a tribute to the artisans who built the brand’s legacy. It’s an artistic handshake across generations.
And then there’s the presentation—a French-fitted hardwood display case, lined in deep blue velveteen, centered by a hand-engraved silver plaque that reads simply: “Colt / Engraving / Sampler.” Elegant, understated, and timeless. Each revolver also includes its original Colt factory box, ensuring provenance and completeness.
This set isn’t just collectible—it’s foundational. A moment in Colt history where artistry, heritage, and personal connection converge. Whether you’re a serious collector or a curator of American craftsmanship, this pair represents the soul of Colt: precision, pride, and permanence.
