Colt belt buckle

[tomob1]

hi, this isn't for sale, I'm just looking for some information and did'nt know where to post.

I have a brass belt buckle that says
"Americas Pioneer Heritage
Colt Army 44
model 1860
Made from shell case brass from 1916-18 war by colt firearms co"
in the upper left corner is
"1919 souvenir"
can anyone tell me some history on this? when they were made, were they marketed or just given out as advertiement?
thanks
tom

[DFrame]

I have one too but know nothing about it. Hoping someone out there does. I'd really like to know as well.

[tommix]

These types of buckles are well illustrated in Ogle's book, "Colt Memorabilia". This one and others similar are known as "fantasy items", neither made nor authorizd by Colt. This type is probably pot-metal, not brass, but brass plated. Value is $3.00 to $10.00 according to Ogle. They are first seen in the 1950's, not of the vintage they appear to be.

Colt did authorize a number of buckles, in the 1970's and 1980's. All are shown in Ogle's book.

[aerosick]

E-Bay starting bid: $4.99 + $4.20 shipping.

Billy

[tomob1]

thanks for thew info.
I scraped the reverse and the brass flaked off revealing pot metal base.
I have the "official" buckles made by colt, but had never seen this one before. a buddy paid 2 bucks for it at a garage sale and gave it to me.

tom

[tomob1]

another "NIB" 2nd edition buckle, 1860 army, arrived today.
the original price tag is still on the box; $13.95!