Well, John, I'm sorry you don't feel like this is priced fairly, I suggest you pass on this piece or call me and make an offer.
Yes, it is nearly $40K and yes there are a few dings in the wood, the gun isn't mint, but it is *much* nicer than the VAST majority of Colt's that are offered for sale. Find another one for sale that is this nice, much easier said than done. I guess I should also apologize to you that the drum was lost years ago, shame on that careless deputy for taking his Colt out with a non-original drum. Would you prefer I advertise it with a NY drum and ship it with a WW II drum?
Regarding the SN, no, I am not trying to hide anything, and frankly think your implication is completely uncalled for. Yes, we all have Gordon's book and it is easy to look up, but I see no reason to broadcast the SN out to the entire world on an internet board. maybe I'm just funny that way, but I fail to see how that makes me less than honest.
I do agree that it tough to tell much from that picture, but as I said, I have numerous pics I can send to anyone that is interested.
Philasteen, yes the horizontal foregrip is original.