Colt Detective Special Second Issue Value Guide

The Colt Detective Special Second Issue is a quintessential piece of Americana, renowned for being the first short-barreled revolver to feature a modern swing-out cylinder. Its six-round capacity gave it a distinct tactical advantage over five-round competitors, making it the definitive sidearm for mid-century undercover law enforcement and private investigators.

What affects the value of Colt Detective Special Second Issue?

• The condition of the original high-polish blued finish significantly impacts the $850-$935 price range.
• Presence of original factory packaging, paperwork, and matching serial numbers on the box increases desirability.
• Mechanical tightness and the integrity of the timing on the six-shot swing-out cylinder.
• Scarcity of specific production years or variants, such as those with nickel finishes or rare factory grips.

How to Identify Colt Detective Special Second Issue?

• Verify the carbon steel frame and the short 2-inch barrel chambered specifically for .38 Special.
• Check for the 'Second Issue' characteristic ramped front sight which replaced the earlier half-moon style.
• Look for the authentic checkered walnut grips with the silver-colored Colt medallion.
• Confirm the serial number falls within the 1947 to 1972 production range before the introduction of the shrouded ejector rod.

History of Colt Detective Special Second Issue

Introduced in 1927, the Detective Special was one of the first short-barreled revolvers produced with a modern swing-out cylinder. It became the iconic firearm for undercover law enforcement and private investigators throughout the mid-20th century, favored for its six-round capacity in a compact frame compared to competitors' five-round models.