POTD: The London Agency Colt New Line .38 – A Rare Long-Barrel Variant
Sam.S 02.26.25
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! This exceptional 1878 Colt New Line .38 caliber revolver represents one of the rarest variations of Colt’s early metallic cartridge pocket pistols. While most New Line .38s featured a standard 2.25-inch barrel, this example sports a scarce 4-inch barrel, making it a highly coveted collector’s piece. Manufactured as a Second Model with standard features including a loading gate and spur trigger, the revolver bears the classic “COLT NEW 38” etched panel on the left side and British proof marks confirming its London Agency origin. The well-preserved blue and case-hardened finish, German silver blade front sight, and smooth rosewood grips showcase the quality of Colt’s 1870s craftsmanship. The New Line series, introduced in 1873 alongside the legendary Single Action Army, represented Colt’s early foray into metallic cartridge revolvers after the expiration of the Rollin White patent. This particular .38 caliber model was produced between 1874-1880, with production ending when Colt refused to lower quality standards to compete with cheaper imitations. The accompanying oak presentation case with Colt London Agency label and period Eley cartridges further enhances this revolver’s historical significance.
“Manufactured in 1878 as a Second Model with standard features as well as the scarce and desirable 4 inch barrel and a loading gate. It is unclear exactly how many of these 4 inch barrel New Line .38 revolvers were made, but it is very clear that they are far more scarce than the standard barrel lengths, especially in such outstanding condition like this example. The standard two-line address is on top of the barrel, the desirable “COLT NEW 38” in an etched panel on the left, patent date on the bottom under the cylinder pin, British proofs on the lower left, and serial number on the lower right near the muzzle. The left side of the frame is marked “38CAL C” and the serial number is marked on the left of the grip frame. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight, frame top groove rear sight, and a pair of smooth rosewood grips. Includes a very attractive oak presentation case with Colt London Agency interior label, cleaning rod, keys, and a selection of Eley .380 CF cartridges. Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection”
Lot 178: London Agency Cased Colt New Line .38 Revolver with 4″ Barrel – Spectacular Colt London Agency Cased Colt New Line .38 Spur Trigger Revolver with Rare and Desirable 4 Inch Barrel. (n.d.-a). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved February 23, 2025, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4090/178/london-agency-cased-colt-new-line-38-revolver-with-4-barrel.
