During the turbulent years following the California Gold Rush, Joaquin Murrieta emerged in legend as a symbol of resistance, justice and cultural pride. A Mexican miner who suffered violence, discrimination and the loss of his family at the hands of Anglo settlers, Murrieta’s story transformed from personal tragedy into folklore. According to popular tales, he turned to outlaw life not for greed, but for revenge against injustice and to defend the dignity of his people.
Details on the left side of the gun’s slide frame Murrieta’s famous quote – “If you betray me, I will scatter to the winds all that you have and all that you love” – and a flower scroll indigenous to Mexico in 24k gold. On the rear panel is the iconic Colt serpent logo, also in 24k gold.
The right side of the gun’s slide features Murrieta in a western bronc-style riding, similar to cowboy action riding, all in 24k gold and bordered. To match the left side of the gun’s slide, there is a flower scroll of Mexico’s national flowers. The rear serration shows a Golden Nugget, and the gun’s series number is 001 of 200.
The top of the slide sits a portrait of Joaquin Murrieta, with name and birth-to-death year in 24k gold. Towards the back, the Mexican Eagle for its era.
The frame, slide, barrel and hardware are all highly polished and feature 24k gold in select areas, and controls in a deep Colt Royal Blue finish. 24k gold plating is selective on this commemorative, made complete with a gold Colt rampart medallion inserted on presentation-grade Kirinite grips.
