In the event that you have or plan to purchase a Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, you’ve probably been wondering what secrets it might have. If you’re a collector enthusiast or simply curious, conducting a Colt SAA Serial Number Lookup will reveal an abundance of information regarding the history of your firearm’s creation, origins, and worth.
This guide will walk you through the essential information you need regarding Colt SAA serial numbers, from where they can be found to how to interpret the numbers accurately. We’ll provide real-life stories along with expert tools and tools to aid you in becoming a proficient collector or buyer.
Can I look up a product by serial number? Yes—Here’s How for Colt SAA
Yes, you can find a Colt SAA by serial number, and this is crucial if you wish to find out the year it was produced as well as what purpose it was employed for and what it could be worth.
A serial number shows:
- Manufacture date
- Revolver generation (1st, 2nd, or 3rd)
- Features that are original, such as caliber, finish, and barrel length
- Shipment history, including destination
- Value of the collector and rareness
To conduct an Colt SAA serial number lookup Follow these steps:
- Locate the serial numbers on the gun (more on this in the near future).
- Search databases like ProofHouse.com.
- Utilise the official Colt serial number lookup tool.
- Request a Colt Archive letter to obtain certified historic records.

What year was the Colt SAA made? Find out the year from serial numbers.
You can determine which year the Colt SAA was made by comparing the serial number to the production records.
Here’s a quick overview of the Colt SAA generations and their associated serial numbers:
Generation | Serial Number Range | Manufacture Years |
---|---|---|
1st Gen | 1-357,859 | 1873-1941 |
2nd Gen | 0001SA – 73,205SA | 1956-1974 |
3rd Gen | 80,000 SA+ | 1976–Present |
If your revolver bears the serial number, for instance,24563
it’s probably a first-generation Colt, made during the 19th century’s final years.
To determine the precise year, refer to this chart of serial numbers.
Can I Tell What a Gun Is by the Serial Number? Here’s What It Reveals
You can determine what a firearm is by its serial number, particularly for an antique piece such as the Colt SAA. Colt SAA. The serial number can help to identify
- The exact model
- Year of production
- The length of the barrel in its original form and end
- Military or special contract
- If it’s a matching-number gun (all parts are original),
If you utilise the serial numbers of Colt to search for or request a Colt Archive letter that provides you with information that elevates your firearm from being a rusty revolver into a relic of the past.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Colt Army Special? Here’s Where to Look
If you’re thinking, “Where is the serial number on a Colt Army Special?” Here’s the place to look:
- Below the barrel
- The frame close to the trigger guard
- In the middle of the crane, if it opens
For a Colt SAA, check:
- The right side of frame in front of the loading gate
- The trigger’s underside guard
- Backstrap
- Cylinder in the event that it’s not original
Verify that all serial numbers are in sync—this signifies that the gun’s parts are genuine and increases the value of your gun.
Step-by-Step Guide: Colt SAA Serial Number Lookup
This guide will help you in doing the search for the serial numbers of Colt SAA:
Step 1: Locate the Serial Number
Check the revolver. The serial number will be visible.
- Behind the gate for loading
- To the backstrap
- Below it is the trigger guard
Step 2: Match All Components
Verify that the same serial number is displayed on different parts. If they do not match, the gun could be missing replacement parts.
Step 3: Look It Up
Enter your phone number on ProofHouse.com or Colt’s official lookup.
Step 4: Order an Archive Letter
This service offered by Colt provides you with a certified document of:
- Factory Configuration
- Ship date
- Shipping destination
- Specific notations (military use and commemoratives.)
Get your letter here.
Anecdote: Ghosts From the Old West
A man from Texas has bought an old revolver from an auction for $400. Utilising the Colt SAA serial number search and a lookup of the serial number, he discovered that it was made by the company in 1881—just days before the Oklahoma Corral shooting match at Tombstone. Although there was no evidence to suggest the gun was used in the notorious shootout, its condition and its story helped push its value to over $35,000 when it was auctioned off.
This is the kind of information that serial numbers can reveal.
How to Spot a Fake or Mismatched Colt SAA
Counterfeit Colts are frequent due to the importance of the revolver. Be on the lookout for:
- Incorrect serial number formats
- Modern-day fonts or engraving styles
- Serials that are not compatible are present on the backstrap as well as the trigger guard and the frame
- Parts that look to be too recent
Make use of this firearm appraiser’s directory to get in touch with experts.
How Serial Numbers Affect Value
The serial number on your Colt isn’t just about the past; it’s about money.
Serial Type | Value Impact |
---|---|
Early 1st Gen (< 1880) | Very valuable |
Documented military use | Interest in collectors has increased |
All numbers that are in the same order | Premium price |
Archive letter confirmed | More trust, better bids |
Collectors will offer top dollar to ensure authenticity. Do not sell or purchase without confirming.
Buying a Colt SAA? Here’s How with confidence
Whether it’s for shooting or collecting, or for investing, the purchase of a Colt SAA is an educated choice. Use these guidelines:
Always request clear images that show the serial number.
Verify that all parts have the same numbers.
Request for a Colt Archive Letter or evidence of authenticity
Purchase from trusted sellers like

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Always Do a Colt SAA Serial Number Lookup
This Colt SAA serial number search provides you with a direct link to the past and also your most effective protection against purchasing a fake. If you’re looking to collect, appraise, or are simply interested, the simple steps will provide you with
- Historical insights
- Certificate of authenticity
- Confidence prior to purchasing
- Value validation
In just a few minutes an unregistered serial number can turn an old revolver into a prized antique and investment item.