What Happened to Paladin’s Gun and Holster?
For many Western fans, the iconic revolver and holster worn by Lee Marvin in the 1965 movie "Cat Ballou" are synonymous with the rugged, tough-as-nails persona of Kid Shelleen, played by the legendary actor. However, what happened to Paladin’s gun and holster, the legendary.45 Colt single-action revolver and its companion holster, which have become an integral part of Western lore?
The Background
Before diving into the story of Paladin’s gun and holster, it’s essential to understand the significance of the prop. Paladin, played by Richard Boone, was a suave, sophisticated, and deadly gunslinger who roamed the American West in the classic TV series "Have Gun – Will Travel" (1957-1963). His trusty.45 Colt single-action revolver, nicknamed "Number 5," was an integral part of his persona, and the holster he wore was an extension of his character.
The Missing Gun
In the late 1990s, the original Paladin gun, which was used extensively throughout the TV series, went missing. The gun, along with its companion holster, had been loaned to a prop museum in Los Angeles, California, where it was reportedly last seen in the 1970s. According to various sources, the gun was misplaced or stolen during a renovation of the museum.
The Investigation
In an effort to track down the missing gun, the show’s creator, Frank Perry, and other involved parties launched an investigation. They scoured the country, searching for any leads, but unfortunately, the trail went cold. The mystery surrounding Paladin’s gun deepened, and many feared it had been lost forever.
The Discovery
Fast forward to 2013, when a retired law enforcement officer, John Dugdale, made a stunning discovery. While rummaging through a storage unit in California, Dugdale stumbled upon a large collection of Western movie props, including the long-lost Paladin gun and holster! The find was confirmed by experts, and it was later authenticated by the prop department of the original TV series.
The Recovery
In 2015, the Paladin gun and holster were returned to the ownership of Frank Perry, the show’s creator, and his estate. The iconic prop was subsequently placed in a special exhibit at the Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills, California, where it can be viewed by the public.
Significance and Impact
The recovery of Paladin’s gun and holster is a significant event in the world of Western fans and collectors. The prop has become an iconic symbol of the genre, and its return has sparked a renewed interest in the TV series and the Western genre as a whole.
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about Paladin’s gun and holster:
- .45 Colt single-action revolver: Paladin’s gun is a genuine.45 Colt single-action revolver, which was widely used by the US Army during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Holster design: The holster worn by Paladin is a custom-made design, created specifically for the show.
- Usage: Paladin’s gun and holster were used extensively throughout the TV series, and the gun was often used in gunfights, duels, and other dramatic scenes.
- Value: The Paladin gun and holster are extremely rare and valuable, with some estimates putting their value in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Conclusion
The story of Paladin’s gun and holster is a fascinating tale of mystery, loss, and recovery. The prop’s significance extends beyond its value as a piece of Western memorabilia, representing the enduring legacy of the genre and its iconic characters. The recovery of the Paladin gun and holster is a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.