SERIAL NUMBER: J39897. BARREL: 4". CALIBER: .357 MAGNUM. This is a unicorn straight from the Colt archives, a highly collectable revolver that never made it to production ! Perfect for the Elite Colt Python Collector. This experimental revolver is accompanied by a factory letter. This Colt Python MK III, serial number J39897, is a unique example of a Colt factory prototype. Due to its ship date of 1998 from the Colt Archives date to 1998 for the Python variant with a 4" barrel chambered in .357 Magnum" / .38 Special, and 1970 for the MK III series, which includes models such as the Lawman, Metropolitan, Official Police, Officer Model, and Trooper. According to the factory archives team this 1970 revolver was entered into their "system" in 1998, likely transitioning from the museum, then as per the letter shipped to public from the Colt museum archives in 2008. According to the included factory letter, this revolver was shipped by Colt on October 16, 2008, to Greg Martin Auctions, located at 660 Third Street, Suite 100, in San Francisco, California. Notably. The letter states that this revolver was retained by the Colt factory as a sample and display piece prior to shipment. This letter clearly indicates that the revolver "was a sample and display revolver" used by Colt for internal purposes such as a reference sample or exhibition item, thereby enhancing its historical significance and collectible value as a factory documented display specimen. This Python MK III features standard markings, including the left side of the barrel stamped with "PYTHON MK III", ".357 MAGNUM CTG.". The intriguing aspect lies in the possible overlap of production timelines of the Python and MK III series. This could indicate that this revolver was a rare transitional model that bridges the gap between the earlier Pythons and the new MK III design. Colt had been transitioning its revolver line during this period, particularly with the introduction of the Mark III series, which utilized a simplified action system and sintered steel parts. Given the combination of features and the serial number, it is conceivable that this example was part of a smaller batch used for testing or limited production runs, further adding to its mystery and collect ability. CONDITION: Very Good. non matching factory case. C&R.