Colt Detective Special .38 Special revolver, an iconic snub-nose design that became a favorite of detectives and plainclothes officers. Serial number: A37438, dating to 1969. 2" barrel. Blued finish. Left side of barrel marked "Detective Spec. .38 Special CTG." and right side marked "Colt's PT. F.A. MFG. CO. Hartford, CONN. U.S.A." Double action with swing-out 6-shot cylinder. Grooved hammer and trigger. Checkered walnut grips with Colt medallion embedded. Comes with original box and manual. Shows honest wear consistent with age. Condition as shown in photos.
Make Colt
Caliber .38 Special
Model Detective Special Revolver
Serial Number A37438
Year 1969
Colt Firearms & Collectibles Auction - A Legacy Collection
This remarkable auction showcases the storied legacy of Colt's Manufacturing Company through an extraordinary collection spanning over 120 years of American firearms history. From the iconic Single Action Army "Peacemaker" that won the West to modern semi-automatic pistols, this collection demonstrates Colt's enduring influence on American firearms development and culture. Samuel Colt's vision of interchangeable parts and mass production revolutionized the firearms industry, and this auction presents that evolution through authentic examples from multiple eras of Colt production.
The collection chronicles Colt's double-action revolver development with historic pieces including the New Army and Navy Double Action .38 caliber from 1901, the .41 DA 41 Thunderer from 1905, and the evolution of the Police Positive line through decades - from early .22 WRF models to the .32 Colt Police Positive Special (1956), .38 Special variants (1950, 1969), and the Police Positive MK V. These service revolvers armed law enforcement across America and represent Colt's commitment to reliable defensive firearms.
Colt's legendary .22 rimfire revolvers are extensively represented, showcasing the company's dedication to recreational shooting and training. The collection includes Frontier Scout models, Peacemaker .22 variants, New Frontier editions, and commemorative pieces celebrating American heritage - the 1863 Idaho Territorial Centennial and 1890 Wyoming Diamond Jubilee editions. The rare John Wayne "The Duke" New Frontier exemplifies Colt's connection to American popular culture and Western heritage. Buntline models with extended barrels pay homage to frontier history.
Colt's semi-automatic pistol innovations appear throughout, from the elegant .22 LR Woodsman Model Automatic Target Pistol (1943), Challenger (1952), and Huntsman (1955) that defined American target shooting, to the classic 1903 Hammerless Pocket Automatic (1910) that influenced concealed carry design. The collection includes the legendary 1911 platform in MK IV Series '70 and Series 80 Officer's ACP variants - John Browning's masterpiece that served American military and civilians for over a century. Miniature derringers demonstrate Colt's range, from the historic .41 rimfire Third Model to paired .22 Short Fourth Models.
Beyond firearms, this collection celebrates Colt's cultural impact through extensive memorabilia: comprehensive reference libraries including signed R.L. Wilson works, vintage toy guns that introduced generations to the Colt name, over 20 belt buckles featuring iconic models, dozens of commemorative pins and patches, Sterling silver jewelry, grips spanning multiple models and eras, and Colt-branded accessories that became symbols of American craftsmanship and frontier heritage.
All firearms transactions must comply with federal, state, and local laws.
Online bidding only - Located at 135 South Wilkinson Ave Sidney, Ohio 45365
Auction begins closing: Monday February 9th @ 7:00 P.M.
Preview: By appointment only - Call 937-492-1078
Pickup for non-FFL items: Wednesday February 11th 2:00-5:00 P.M. via Shipping Saint Scheduler
This auction offers collectors a rare opportunity to acquire pieces representing Colt's complete legacy - from frontier revolvers to modern firearms, commemorative editions to cultural artifacts!
# Firearms Auction Terms and ConditionsIMPORTANT: Vondenhuevel Auctioneers LLC is a federally licensed firearms dealer, so you can buy and sell with confidence, knowing all applicable laws are followed. All firearm purchases must comply with federal, state, and local laws. Background checks are required for all firearm transfers. Proper FFL transfers will be arranged for out-of-state buyers.## Auction Information**Preview:** By appointment, call 937-492-1078 to schedule an appointment. Located at 135 South Wilkinson Ave Sidney, Ohio 45365**Auction Closing:** MONDAY, February 9th. at 7:00 PM**Location:** 135 South Wilkinson Ave. Sidney, Ohio 45365## Pickup Schedule### Non-Regulated Items (Ammunition, Toys, Accessories, etc.)- **Date:** Wednesday, February 11th.- **Time:** 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM- **By appointment via pickup scheduler sent in separate email**- **Be sure to choose your time slot**### Regulated Firearms (Requiring Background Check/Transfer)- **By appointment only**- A representative will contact you within 24 hours to schedule your appointment- **Shipping to your FFL is available** (see shipping details below)## Payment Terms- **Invoices under $1,500:** Your registered credit card will be automatically charged upon auction conclusion- **Invoices over $1,500:** Payment required via cash, certified check, cashier's check, or wire transfer- **Important:** All payments must clear before any items will be released- **Buyer's Premium:** 15% will be added to all purchases- **Ohio Sales Tax:** 7.25% applies to Ohio residents (unless tax-exempt certificate on file)## Shipping Information**Shipping Process:**- **Buyers will receive an email with the option to pick up their firearms or have them shipped**- **For shipping:** Provide your FFL address as the secondary shipping address- **All items except Black Powder and Primers are available for shipping****Shipping Options:**- **FFL Firearms:** Must ship to your local FFL dealer- **Ammunition, Black Powder Rifles, and related items:** Can ship to your home or business**Shipping Requirements for Firearms:**- Contact your chosen FFL dealer and have them send a copy of their FFL to **
[email protected]**- **Include your name** in the email to ensure proper identification- Firearms require insurance and adult signature upon delivery- **Shipping costs:** $40.00-$60.00 for average firearm (depending on insurance value)- Packaging fees based on time and materials used- **Buyer responsible for all shipping fees, insurance, and packaging costs**- Receiving FFL will perform the transfer and required background checks- **Buyer responsible for any fees charged by receiving FFL****Special Note:** If shipping to another MarkNet member, transfer fees may be waived.## Bidding Features- **Staggered Ending:** Lots close at 3 per minute starting at 7:00 PM- **Max Bid:** Recommended feature allows automatic bidding on your behalf- **Soft Close:** Any bid in final 5 minutes extends that lot by 5 additional minutes- **Notifications:** Email/text alerts when outbid## Firearms Purchase Requirements### Background Check Process- All firearm purchasers must complete ATF Form 4473 and pass NICS background check- **CCW holders:** Form 4473 required, but NICS check waived- **Valid state-issued driver's license required**- **The person paying must be the person who picks up, completes paperwork, and passes background check**### Important Firearm Policies- **Failed Background Check:** 20% restocking fee applies, buyer's premium forfeited- **NICS Delays:** Firearms may transfer after 5 business days if no further response- **Straw Purchases:** Strictly prohibited and illegal- **Condition:** All firearms considered used unless marked "New in Box (NIB)"- **No Test Firing:** Auction company does not test fire weapons### NICS Response Outcomes- **Proceed:** Immediate transfer authorized- **Deny:** Payment still required; appeals process information provided- **Delay:** Payment required; may transfer after 5 business days## General Terms- Invoice emailed within 24 hours of auction close- **Must present paid invoice before item removal**- Keep credit card information current in your profile- Items not picked up within 30 days subject to storage fees- **Eligibility:** Ensure you can legally own firearms before bidding- All sales final## Contact InformationFor questions regarding appointments, shipping, or payment: 937-492-1078**By bidding, you agree to all terms and conditions outlined above**
## Pickup Schedule
### Non-Regulated Items (Ammunition, Toys, Accessories, etc.)
- **Date:** Wednesday, February 11th.
- **Time:** 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- **By appointment via pickup scheduler sent in separate email**
- **Be sure to choose your time slot**
### Regulated Firearms (Requiring Background Check/Transfer)
- **By appointment only**
- A representative will contact you within 24 hours to schedule your appointment
- **Shipping to your FFL is available**
