1902 Colt Philippine

[marinville]

I have recently come into possession of one of these pistols, and so I've been doing some research. This video from forgotten weapons has been very informative.

Apparently these are a variation of an earlier model (Colt double action army) and were produced for the US constabulary during the Philippine insurrection. Under 5000 produced.

The bad news is: this one is in rough shape. In fact, virtually all the non-permanently attached pieces are missing. Basically only the frame and barrel remain intact, and what remains has a dark patina.

I'm wondering if this gun has any value left, due to its unfortunate condition. I am also considering rebuilding it, but struggle to find parts. If anyone knows a source for parts other than Numerich, please advise.

Markings include: "Colts pt.f.a. Mfg. Co Hartford CT USA" (top of barrel) 45 colt (left side barrel) "U.S." (right side frame) "R.A.C." (left side frame) "48XXX" (bottom of grip)

I am currently having a bear of a time trying to post a photo, but I will try to update with one later.

[marinville]

[Emptymag]

Appears to be the even rarer skeletonized, lightweight model.

Inside the barrel there should be a wooden dowel rod with a small white "flag" wrapped around the front end.
If you carefully unroll the flag, it should have the word "BANG!" printed on it.






Off to watch the video. Looks interesting!

[39flathead]

That's a project I wouldn't tackle.

Even if you would spend the years needed to collect all the pieces it won't match up either numerically or finish wise and the value would still be low imo.

I'd suggest selling it on GunBroker in the hopes there are two guys out there that have one in even worse condition than that who could use the bones as a basis for their donor parts.
I wouldn't expect much, that's in the range of older Colt pistols that just don't have the fan base that other Colt guns have.

[Ecclectic Collector]

Second what 39Flathead says...

If you take on this project, it will take time and money. There are places that would stock some of the parts: S&S Firearms, Dixie Gun Works, etc... and specialize in historic American firearms. You could also give it to Doug Turnbull restorations and send a big check, then wait.

Either way you'd be into the project for far more than you could expect to get back in terms of absolute dollar value. Do you want a project just for the heck of it? Think of it on those terms.

[MT1]

I'd keep it just like it is and use it as a paperweight on my desk. Lots of gun guys at my job so it would certainly be a conversation starter.

[alpacaheat]

*Mount it in the bathroom for the coolest toilet paper roll holder ever.

*Hang it over your front door. Inside or outside.

*Make a plaque with threatening slogan for visitors

*Belt buckle

*Mount upright, run wires through barrel and make a lamp

[Emptymag]

List it in the classifieds for $600.
Cruzans WILL buy that sumbitch - cuz it's something he doesn't have.

[marinville]

I suppose I will probably unload it for cheap on gunbroker. At least that way someone might fix it up. Its a damn shame for it to remain as it is, but I also dont need a project right now.

[cruzans]

I just flew in, been gone all week, sit down to go through PAFOA and first thing I come across is this ! I'm offended. But how much do you want for it - lol. JK, I do pass on some things Good luck with it !

List it in the classifieds for $600.
Cruzans WILL buy that sumbitch - cuz it's something he doesn't have.