Colt Official Police Post-War Fourth Issue .38 Special, 5-Inch, C.P.D. Marked, Royal Blue Finish
This 1950 Colt Official Police Post-War Fourth Issue revolver stands out with its less-common 5-inch barrel, vivid factory Royal Blue finish, and C.P.D. butt-strap property marking that confirms documented police service. Built on Colt’s sturdy E-frame and chambered in .38 Special, it combines collectible provenance with duty-grade engineering. Aftermarket imitation mother-of-pearl grip panels add a period-style custom touch.
CONDITION
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Mechanically: Functions correctly.
Specific Condition Notes: Scattered scratches, small blemishes, and areas of surface rust are visible on the frame and cylinder.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Colt Official Police Post-War Fourth Issue .38 Special revolver
- Aftermarket two-piece imitation mother-of-pearl grip panels (installed)
Colt produced the Serial No. 806XXX range in 1950, placing this revolver squarely in the early post-war manufacturing era. The butt-strap is roll-marked “C.P.D.” for police department ownership, adding verified service history that many collectors seek.
The factory 5-inch carbon-steel barrel is less common than the standard 4-inch and 6-inch lengths, offering a balanced profile while maintaining full-size sight radius. A serrated top rib reduces glare, and the ramped, serrated front blade carries red paint for quicker sight reference against the fixed rear U-notch.
Colt’s polished Royal Blue finish displays deep luster across the frame, cylinder, and barrel, contrasted by the aftermarket imitation mother-of-pearl grips that deliver classic visual appeal and secure two-panel fit.
The revolver retains its original six-shot, fluted cylinder with clockwise rotation, knurled-tip ejector rod, and smooth-face trigger. Double-action and single-action operation cycle cleanly, reflecting the robust E-frame design that earned the Official Police its reputation for reliability.
Whether valued for its police provenance, uncommon barrel length, or 1950 production date, this Post-War Fourth Issue presents a strong blend of collectibility and shootable condition.