Colt Official Police "NYST" — New York State Trooper Issue

NYST = New York State Troopers. The marking adds significant collector premium.

What NYST Means

• Issued to NYSP 1930s–late 1980s.
• Typically 4" or 6" barrel, .38 Special, blue finish, checked walnut grips.
• Stamped “NYST” on backstrap (some also on frame).

Value Drivers

• Condition (original finish % — NYST guns often holster-worn).
• Serial range → year → troop assignment (see below).
• Box / papers / holster / cleaning rod.
• Rare variants: 3" barrel, nickel, .22 LR conversion.

Determining Troop / Barracks

1. Serial number: Cross-reference NYSP ledger (not public; FOIA request to NYSP Historian).
2. Unit stamp: Some have 2–3 letter troop code (e.g., “A” = Troop A Batavia, “K” = Troop K Millbrook) on frame or trigger guard.
3. NYSP Museum / Archives (Albany) may assist researchers.
4. Collector forums: ColtForum, Smith-WessonForum, GunBoards — members have compiled serial→troop databases.

Serial 885659 Context

Colt OP serials: 885xxx ≈ 1970–71 production. NYSP bought in batches; likely issued to Troop T (NYC) or Troop K (Hudson Valley) — but only NYSP records confirm.

Premium Estimate

Standard OP (90 %): $800–$1,200. NYST-marked (90 %): $1,500–$2,500. With troop ID + box: $3,000+.