Colt Diamondback .38 Special Grade "D" Engraved

The Colt Diamondback is a highly regarded double-action revolver produced by Colt's Manufacturing Company from 1966 to 1986 (with limited production resuming briefly in the 1990s). It's a deluxe, medium-frame model inspired by the iconic Colt Python, featuring a ventilated rib on the barrel, fully adjustable target sights, a wide serrated target hammer, and a full-length barrel underlug. Chambered in .38 Special (among other calibers like .22 LR), it holds 6 rounds in a swing-out cylinder and was offered in blue or bright nickel finishes. Barrel lengths typically range from 2.5" to 6". Nickel versions, like yours, are less common than blued ones and often command a premium among collectors due to their elegant appearance.

This is a premium variant: nickel-plated finish, Grade D engraved (likely referring to factory engraving on the D-frame, which was Colt's medium revolver frame size), .38 Special caliber, with serial number N11303. Factory engraving on Diamondbacks was rare and custom-ordered, adding significant collectible value—often performed by Colt's Master Engravers like Wilbur H. "Wil" Folsom or Louis Golson. 

Manufacturing Date Based on Serial Number

Colt Diamondback serial numbers were shared across several small- to medium-frame models (e.g., Police Positive Special, Detective Special), so the prefix and number provide an approximate date. For your serial N11303:

The "N" prefix was used exclusively in 1977–1978.

Specific ranges:

1976 (late): N01001–N01800

1977: N01801–N15674

Since N11303 falls squarely within the 1977 range (after N01801 and well before N15674), this revolver was manufactured in 1977.

This aligns with production records from Colt historians and collector resources. 

Key Specifications and Features

Diamondback (D-frame revolver)

Caliber

.38 Special (6-shot cylinder)

Finish

Bright nickel-plated

Engraving

Grade D (factory-engraved; likely custom Grade D or similar, featuring detailed scrollwork or patterns)

Serial Number

N11303 (1977 production)

Barrel Length

4" Barrel 

Grips

Typically checkered walnut (original); aftermarket options common

Sights

Fully adjustable rear target sight; ramp front

Weight

~26–34 oz (depending on barrel)

Overall Length

~7.25–9.5" (depending on barrel)

This is a beautiful Colt collectors piece!

The Colt letter is on order and is included in the price of this beautiful Diamondback. 

Ships Free to the FFL of your choice!