Manufactured in 1939, the included factory letter confirms the pistol's configuration, including a 4 3/4 inch barrel chambered for .22 caliber, blue finish, and type of grips not listed, when sent in a lone shipment the Loan Account of L.C. Davis, Colt's Patent Fire-Arms Mfg. Co. The pistol was returned to the factory on July 12, 1939, then sent in a shipment of two pistols to Von Lengerke and Antoine in Chicago, Illinois, on July 18, 1939. Features fixed oval blade front and adjustable tangent rear sights, unmarked blued barrel with polished chamber hood, along with checkered slide catch, short trigger, thumb safety, wide spur hammer, and arched mainspring housing. The right of the slide bears the two-line Colt address and patent dates with Rampant Colt, with the "ACE" designation and caliber marking on the right side. The right of the frame bears the serial number, the "4" and "triangle/VP" marked on the left of the trigger guard. Fitted with a pair of checkered walnut grips and a correct two-tone blued magazine marked "COLT/ACE/22LR" on the base. Includes the original Colt maroon box with appropriate end label and matching serial number written on the underside in pencil, manual, and bore brush.

Excellent plus, near new in box, retaining 99% plus bright original blue finish with some limited minor cycling wear, limited handling evidence, and crisp markings. The grips are also excellent plus with attractive oil finish and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The box is very good with worn edges. It would be difficult to find another Pre-World War II Colt Ace pistol in this outstanding condition and with similar history!