The accompanying factory letter lists this factory engraved pre-WWII National Match pistol with a 5 inch barrel in .45 caliber, nickel finish, factory engraving, "furnished with a new safety device" (Swartz safety), and type of stocks not listed when it was shipped to Oshman's Outdoor Store, Houston, Texas, on December 4, 1937. According to Colt historian R.L. Wilson, "about twenty-five [First Model National Match] pistols" were factory engraved from 1933-1941 (see "The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two," page 603). 90% of the surface is covered in an engraved floral scroll and blossom motif on a punch dot background. Even the grip safety is engraved. The engraving was likely done by Colt Master Engraver Wilbur A. Glahn. A similar pattern by Glahn as documented on a National Match is pictured in Wilson's "The Colt Engraving Book Volume Two" on page 599. The slide has the two-line address/patent dates on the left side and model/caliber markings on the right side. "GOVERNMENT MODEL" and the serial number are marked on the right side of the frame. The trigger guard is marked with the number "60" on the right side and "T" above a Colt triangle proof on the left side. Fitted with fixed sights, checkered arched main spring housing and trigger, "COLT 45 AUTO MATCH/MB" marked match barrel, and pearl grips featuring a relief carved steer head with jeweled eyes on the right panel. Magazine absent.

Very fine. The pistol retains 98% plus period replated nickel finish that is taking on a frosted appearance. The grips are also very fine showing chipping around the screw heads and a few minor scratches. Mechanically excellent. An extremely rare, high conditioned, nickel plated, factory engraved pre-war National Match pistol missing from even the most advanced Colt semi-automatic pistol collections. Missing magazine.