This is a scarce example of a British proofed Model 1905 Military semi-automatic pistol. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, 5" barrel, blue finish with the grips as "Not Listed" and that it was shipped as 1 of 50 to Colt's Patent Firearms Co. London Agency, 14 Pall Mall, London, England on November 6, 1907. Remarks state that it was shipped with a lanyard swivel. The left side rear of the slide and frame are marked with a "crown / V" proof mark and the chamber of the barrel is marked with the "crown / V" and "crown / GP" proofmarks. The pistol is equipped with a lanyard loop on the lower left rear of the frame. The grip was shortened at the factory to accommodate the loop. According to "The Book of Colt Firearms" by R.L. Wilson, about 50 Model 1905s were shipped to England with the lanyard loop on the frame. These guns were in the serial number range of 2400 to 3400. Those pistols had Birmingham proofs on the barrel and slide, this pistol is marked only with the London proofs. Although this was the first semi-automatic pistol produced by Colts in 45 caliber it was not a very successful model, but it did lead to the more famous Model 1911 design. The right side of the slide is marked AUTOMATIC COLT / CALIBRE 45 RIMLESS SMOKELESS, and the left has two line, two block 1897, 1902 and 1905 patent dates in one block and the two line address in the other with the circled Rampant Colt behind the slide serrations. The serial number is marked on the left side of the frame with the Colt triangle "VP" proof on the front upper four left of the trigger guard bow and the number "6" on the lower rear. All blue finish with casehardened rounded hammer and fitted with checkered walnut grips with diamond pattern around the screws.

Very fine. The pistol retains 75% bright original blue finish with scattered thinning and areas of smooth brown patina. There are a few overall scattered minor dings and scratches. The small components retain most of the original bright fire blue finish. The hammer shows 80% original slightly faded case colors with the balance faded to a smooth gray. The magazine is absent. The grips are fine with overall scattered minor dents and dings, and crisp checkering. The markings are clear. The action is excellent. A nice example of a very rare Colt British Military Model 1905 Semi Automatic Pistol with the factory letter confirming shipment to London, England.