Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! This 1940 Colt Officer’s Model Target represents more than precision shooting—it’s a tangible connection to Hollywood’s golden age and one of cinema’s most iconic Western heroes. This .38 Special revolver belonged to Gary Cooper, whose portrayal of Marshal Will Kane in “High Noon” earned him an Academy Award and created one of the most enduring characters in American film. The Officer’s Model Target was Colt’s premier target revolver, featuring adjustable sights and hand-fitted precision that made it a favorite among serious marksmen. Cooper’s example retains its custom smooth walnut target grips—a personal touch that reflects his commitment to practical shooting rather than mere collecting.
What makes this revolver historically significant extends beyond celebrity ownership. Cooper’s screen persona as the incorruptible American hero wasn’t just acting—he was a genuine outdoorsman and skilled marksman who brought authentic gun handling to his roles. This technical competence elevated Western films from simple entertainment to cultural touchstones that defined American masculinity for generations. Cooper’s estate included 26 firearms sold through Kerr’s of Beverly Hills in 1962, following his death in May 1961. The accompanying sales receipt documents this revolver’s provenance alongside a Smith & Wesson .357 Registered Magnum that sold for $57,500 in 2017, demonstrating the enduring value of Cooper’s firearms legacy.
The American Film Institute ranked “High Noon” as the second greatest Western ever made, and Cooper’s character Will Kane among the top 100 greatest heroes in film history. This revolver serves as a physical link to that cinematic legacy—a working tool owned by the man who helped define the Western hero archetype that continues to influence American culture today.
“Gary Cooper’s Colt Officer’s Model Target Heavy Barrel Revolver.” Rock Island Auction Company, https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4094/3092/gary-coopers-colt-officers-model-target-heavy-barrel-revolver. Accessed 31 May 2025.
Writer | TheFirearmBlog
Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.
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