This is an extremely rare example of a Colt .32 semi-automatic pistol based on the U.S. patent 1066207 issued to Charles Jolidon on July 1913. The 1 July 1913 patent is a variation of the blowback pistol with this design introducing a spring loaded takedown lever catch ahead of the trigger guard. The method of barrel mounting varied where large lugs were used on the outer surfaces of the barrel near the chamber. Three variant prototypes of this pistol are known to have been manufactured. This pistol has a magazine marked "CAL. 32/COLT" on the bottom and a blade front sight. The cocking mechanism is mounted under the barrel running through the frame. The trigger and grips are absent. The included 2 page letter (dated 9 February 1982) from renowned Colt historian R.L. Wilson states that this pistol, item 777, is listed in the Colt Collection of Firearm, Museum of Connecticut History, Hartford Connecticut, catalogued as an experimental Jolidon patent 2nd Model .32 semi-automatic pistol and confirms the absence of a serial number and proof marks and the 4" barrel. The letter states that the pistol was covered by U.S. patent 1066207 of 1 July 1913 owned with an exclusive Colt license. The Wilson letter also provides history of the piece that can also be found in Donald B. Bady's "Colt Automatic Pistols". (Jolidon also invented a rotating barrel variation of the Colt Model 1911, a design that is believed not to be related to Colt on an official basis.) As Wilson notes, the pistol design has "obvious visual associations with Browning's .32 and .380 Colt Automatics, and has a fascinating role in the evolution of Colt's automatic line of pistols." Complete with two original patent documents issued to Jolidon (1066206 and 1066207) by the U.S. Patent Office with the blue ribbon and seal.

Very fine. The pistol has an untouched correct original smooth aged bright gray patina with numerous minor scratches. Cocking mechanism functions, but does not function as some parts are absent.