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Factory Engraved Colt Model 1903 Semi-Automatic Hammerless Pocket Pistol with Factory Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,600.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Factory Engraved Colt Model 1903 Semi-Automatic Hammerless Pocket Pistol with Factory Letter
Manufactured in 1912 this pistol features factory scroll engraving with a punch dot background on the sides of the frame, and on the top of the slide. Then front of the rear sight and bottom of the front strap have a zigzag design. There is a circle of scroll engraving around the Rampant Colt. The left side of the slide has the two-line, two block address and patent dates (1897 & 1903 ) with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right side of the slide is marked, "AUTOMATIC COLT / CALIBRE 32 RIMLESS SMOKELESS" below the ejection port. The Colt triangle "VP" proof is marked on the upper left front of the trigger guard. Blue barrel with bright chamber, two tone Colt marked magazine and fitted with two piece pearl grips. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, barrel length, blue finish, factory engraving with the grips "Not Listed" and that it was shipped as 1 of 50 to Norvell Shapleigh Hardware Company, St. Louis, Missouri on August 26, 1912.
BBL: 3 3/4 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 32 ACP
Finish: blue
Grips: pearl
Serial Number: 87036
Condition: Period refinished with half of the dull blue finish remaining with some thinning on the grip straps and some high edge wear. There is some minor pitting under the finish on the slide, frame and backstrap. The grips are very good with a moderate chip at the screw escutcheon on the right panel, a small chip just below the slide hold back lever, and some minor scratches and handling marks. The markings and engraving, unless noted above, are clear. Mechanically excellent.