Earlier this month, while most folks had their eyes on horseflesh at the Kentucky Derby, the gun world was glued to a different kind of thoroughbred—a Colt Single Action Army so rare and revered it galloped away with $1.6 million at Rock Island Auction Company’s May Premier Auction. That makes it the second-highest price ever fetched for a Colt SAA revolver.
Known in collector circles as Black Beauty, the legendary revolver didn’t just bring the heat—it brought the history. Featuring master-level engraving by 19th-century artist Louis D. Nimschke and adorned with gold inlays rarely seen on frontier-era Colts, the revolver was originally presented in 1888 to Mexican President Manuel González Flores.
“This is the finest example of the most iconic, American-made firearm. They get no better,” said RIAC President Kevin Hogan. “If this was a painting, it would be hanging in the National Gallery.”
Collectors agree. Between its Nimschke embellishments, pristine condition, and ironclad Colt lineage, Black Beauty checked every box. Despite being over 130 years old, it remains in stunning shape—something that makes seasoned collectors open their wallets wide.
The May 2–4 auction brought in a staggering $28 million total, marking RIAC’s third-highest grossing sale ever and setting a new high for average lot price across its 30+ year history. Among the other highlights were a silver-plated Civil War-era Henry rifle and a pair of custom-engraved J. Purdey & Sons shotguns—each bringing $411,250.
As gun rights and gun culture continue to clash with modern politics, the booming market for historic arms reminds us that America’s love affair with firearms isn’t just alive—it’s thriving.
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