COLT FACTORY ENGRAVED SAAs (3RD GENERATION) Description
the rarity of the SAA configuration in addition to the notability of the engraver will make the difference on the premiums commanded. 3rd Generation factory engraved SAAs were produced in much greater numbers than were 2nd Generation SAAs. Over 80% of engraved 3rd Generation SAAs are .45 LC caliber, the majority have 7 1/2 in. barrels, and some variation of blue finish. Grade "C" (41% of engraved mfg.) and Grade "D" (24% of engraved mfg.) dominate production.
During 1978-79, Colt engraved as many as 300-500 guns on a single factory order. If the level of quality is similar to today's SAAs, the price will also be similar.