# “Colterization” the Sophisticated Form of Flattery
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William B. Edwards and
Sigmund Shore did not only share a fine sense of humor
but they also liked make fun of the big boys in Hartford, to pull their legs
… and got away with it. Therefore, they had Thomas Haas “change” a number of Centaures to look like 1st generation Colt
Army 1860s by stamping PC serial numbers in the proper Colt style. They all feature the barrel
marking - ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT YEW–YORK U.S.
AMERICA – engraved with the correct
type dies. Some even were stamped with the COLTS PATENT mark in two lines on the
forward left side of the frame … where the Centaure
logo used to be. Others were traditionally hand engraved and Colt type bluing
and case hardening was applied, etc. |
All these Centaures
known are unique in one way or the other, see for yourself:
#17562: this Centaure left Belgium as a run of the mill 1st
variation RNMA, 2nd sub-variation. Note Haas’s
beautiful hand engraving, the typical period low profile front sight and the domed
and fire blued srew heads.
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And yes, above
#17562 that is the ivory stock of a Centaure Cavalry
model turned Colt!
#17568: like a
twin of #17562. Note Colt New-York address on the barrel and Colt dies used for
serial numbers!
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#18618: was a
Civilian Model originally hence no cuts for the stock in the recoil shield. Instead
of the proprietary Centaure naval scene her cylinder
was engraved with the Ormsby naval scene. On the
forward left side of the frame is now the mark COLTS PATENT in two lines.
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#8890: regular 1st
variation Cavalry Models turned Colt with matching stock. Brass parts are
silver plated.
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Note deep blue of
barrel and cylinder! Trigger-guard, yoke and butt plate are silver plated,
New-York address on barrel, two line COLTS PATENTS on the
forward left of frame, see close-up below right.
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#5414: for me this
Centaure “colterized” 1st
Cavarly Model is the highlight of the Shore
Collection: lavishly engraved & ivory grips and stock. I want one!
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New-York U.S.A.
barrel marking, butt plate serial numbered and engraved in the style of pistol
and yoke.
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WDN/June 18, 2010
© 2007-10 Wolf D. Niederastroth
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