This is a very rare example of a U.S. marked, Colt Model 1900 "Sight Safety" semi-automatic pistol that was manufactured as part of the first U.S. Ordnance Department contract for 100 pistols, issued May 10, 1900. This model is described on pages 25-31 and this example is actually listed by serial number on page 28 of the book "U.S. Military Automatic Pistols, 1894-1920" by Scott Meadows. It is stamped with serial number, "206", on the left side of the frame above the trigger guard. It is stamped with the rare "U.S." property mark on the front left trigger guard bow. This rare example retains its unaltered rear sight safety mechanism, sixteen milled grip serrations on either side of the slide, hammer with sharp bordered knurled spur, and a nickel-plated seven shot magazine. Originally these pistols had a Colt high polish, commercial blue finish on the metal parts with a fire blue trigger, pins, and screws and color casehardened rear sight and hammer. The slide is correctly roll-stamped on the right side "AUTOMATIC COLT/CALIBRE 38 RIMLESS SMOKELESS" and on the left side "BROWNING'S PATENT"/PAT'D APRIL 20, 1897" "COLT'S PATENT FIRE ARMS MFG. CO./HARTFORD. CONN. U.S.A." The circled Rampant Colt trademark is stamped on the left rear side of the slide. Currently it is fitted with a later set of unmarked smooth walnut grips that do not have the Ordnance final inspection cartouches or "1900" date. The magazine floor plate is roll-stamped: "PAT'D SEPT. 9. 1884". This pistol is accompanied by an equally rare, original black leather bridle holster with the large "U.S." embossed on the front flap. This holster was manufactured by Rock Island Arsenal specifically for issue with the Army Contract Model 1900 Pistols (and later for the Model 1902). The holster is correctly stamped on the back side: "ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL/E.H.S." The embossed "U.S." flap is secured by a brass stud on the front and the elongated belt loop on the back is secured by two brass rivets and stitched at the bottom. The bottom plug is stitched in place and has a drain hole. Three illegible inspector's initials are stamped on the bottom of the flap. Fifty of the 100 Army Contract Model 1900 pistols were sent to Manila for troop tests and Army units in Cuba and Puerto Rico each received twenty-five pistols. One holster and 200 cartridges accompanied each pistol. Of the original 376 holsters manufactured by Rock Island, 326 were intended to be worn in the traditional manner, on the right side with the pistol butt facing the front. However, following criticism from the field, Rock Island Arsenal manufactured fifty holsters designed to be worn on the right side with the butt facing the rear.