The Colt Serial No. 1 single action army "Peacemaker,” sold for $852,900 on January 18, setting a new world record.
:Greg Martin Auctions' January 18 sale shone a bright light on one of the most famous firearms ever made — the Serial No. 1 Colt single-action army "Peacemaker" revolver, which set a new world-record price when it sold for $862,500, including buyer's premium. Intended to dovetail with the Las Vegas Antique, Sporting Arms and Custom Knifemakers Show on January 16–18, the auction realized more than $3 million in sales and sold 95 percent of all lots.
The No. 1 Colt was the most renowned firearm in the Buck Stevens Collection; it has been celebrated since its discovery in 1925. The revolver was sold with extensive background material and its gold-tooled and inscribed leather case, which was custom-made by Arno Werner Bookbinders.
As Greg Martin, owner, said, "Quality and rarity attract buyers, and great firearms still sell — and at record prices. Antique arms continue to be an excellent store of value and asset preservation."
A full review of the auction will appear in a future issue of Antiques and The Arts Weekly.
—AK
