The Colt Single Action Army was introduced in 1873 and remained in continuous production until 1941. To meet sustained demand, Colt reintroduced a second generation of the Single Action Army in 1956, which continued through 1974. In 1964, to coincide with the centennial of the Pony Express mail service founded by the freighting firm of Russell, Majors and Waddell, Colt produced 1,004 Pony Express Presentation Model revolvers. The Pony Express operated from April 1860 to October 1861, covering approximately 1,900 miles between St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California using a relay system of riders and horse stations.

This example is chambered in .45 Colt and features a 7.5 inch barrel with a nickel finish throughout. The left side of the barrel is marked "Russell Majors and Waddell / Pony Express Presentation Model", the top of the barrel with the single line Colt Hartford address, and the right side "Colt .45 Peacemaker". The backstrap of the grip is marked "FORT KEARNY TO JULESBURG". The revolver is fitted with smooth wood grips with Colt medallion inlays and a fluted 6 round cylinder. Two additional non-fluted cylinders are included: one engraved with depictions of the founders and the other engraved with the Pony Express route. Also included is a plexiglass presentation case, an additional commemorative medallion, and two smaller bronze National Pony Express Centennial Association medallions, and a leather bound bible titled "Presented by Russel, Majors & Waddell 1860" with a matching serial number stamped on the inside page.

Note: Appears glass lid has been replaced with plexiglass and may need to be glued down.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Colt's Manufacturing Company
• Model: Single Action Army, Pony Express Presentation Model
• Date of Manufacture: 1964
• Caliber: .45 Colt
• Action: Single action
• Barrel: 7.5 inches
• Frame: Steel
• Finish: Nickel
• Grips: Smooth wood with Colt medallion inlays
• Sights: Blade front, notch rear integral to frame
• Cylinder: Fluted, 6 rounds (installed); two additional non-fluted engraved cylinders