Al Capone’s Iconic Colt .45 Pistol “The Sweetheart”

On May 18th at 3pm ET, online, via phone, and in person, Richmond Auctions will present to the world “The Sweetheart,” Al Capone’s legendary personal protection Colt 1911 firearm that he often described as his favorite gun and credited for saving his life on several occasions. Highly sought-after firearms from famous historical figures have consistently sold for millions in recent auctions, such as Ulysses Grant’s pistols that sold for over $5 million, and Pat Garrett’s Colt revolver that sold for over $6 million. With a similar estimate to the Pat Garrett Colt revolver, Capone’s “Sweetheart” Colt, with pristine provenance, carries a pre-auction estimated value of $2-3 million.

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Sweetheart, Capone’s personal pistol. (Photo: Business Wire)

In documented interviews, Diane Capone, Al Capone’s granddaughter, reveals that “The Sweetheart” was a constant companion to the businessman people often described as the most shot-at man in America, and that Capone often referred to his Colt 1911 as his favorite gun and his “Sweetheart” for saving his life on several occasions. His personal style contributed to his enduring legacy as the archetypal gangster and one of the most recognizable figures in popular culture. Capone is often credited for the phrase, “You can get more with a kind word and a gun than with just a kind word.” As reported in The Wall Street Journal, stories were told that he had a gun in his hand right out of the womb.

“This particular Colt 1911 is more than just a firearm; it’s a physical relic of an era marked by intrigue, lawlessness, and larger-than-life personalities. Its unique connection to Al Capone adds an extra layer of allure, making it a must-have and trump-card for any world-class collector,” remarked Kimmie Williams, Richmond Auctions’ firearms specialist.

Richmond Auctions, a premier international auction in Greenville, SC continues to break records and provide its clients worldwide with an unparalleled experience. Richmond Auctions recently set a world record for the most valuable antique advertising sign which sold for $1.5 million, far exceeding the previous record of $400,000, and also recently sold for over $5 million several of famed John Wayne’s family-issued firearms.

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