The Model 1905 pistol was a direct predecessor to the Model 1911 with a total production of 6,100 from 1905 to 1911. This pistol was manufactured in 1906. The right side of the slide is marked "AUTOMATIC COLT / CALIBRE 45 RIMLESS SMOKELESS" in front of the ejection port. The left side of the slide is marked in two blocks: "PATENTED / APR. 20. 1897. SEPT. 9. 1902. DEC. 19. 1905" and "COLT'S PATENT FIRE ARMS MFG. CO. / HARTFORD CONN. U.S.A." with the circled Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The serial number is located on the left side of the frame above the trigger guard bow. The upper left trigger guard bow bears the Colt "VP" triangle proof and the lower is marked with a "W". Early spur hammer version with half-cock notch and casehardened finish. The remainder of the gun is finished in the standard Colt high-polish blue, except for the trigger, extractor, slide stop, and magazine release, which are niter blue. The grips are checkered walnut with the diamond pattern around the screws and the magazine is blue and unmarked. Consignor states that this pistol falls into the serial number range of 1905 pistols shipped to Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Company in Waco, Texas. An internet search by writer showed that Colt did ship guns to that company at two locations in Arizona.

Very good. The pistol retains approximately 20% of the original finish mostly concentrated on the sides of the slide and frame. The left side of the slide and frame show moderate pitting. The grip straps and exposed metal on the slide and frame have a dark brown patina. The grips are good showing heavy wear on the right panel, moderate on the left, a minor crack radiating from the lower right side screw and for the most part crisp checkering. Some of the markings are beginning to weaken, but all are readable. Mechanically fine.