This is an attractive Colt Military Model 1905 semi-automatic pistol that was manufactured in late 1906. This was Colt's first real entry into the semi-automatic pistol field with a gun that was chambered the new 45 ACP round. This exact model was the true forerunner to the Model 1911 series of pistol, which as we know ushered in 80 years of Colt Model 1911 production. The right side of the slide is marked "AUTOMATIC COLT/CALIBRE 45 RIMLESS SMOKELESS" in front of the ejection port, and the left side is marked in two blocks "PATENTED/APR. 20. 1897. SEPT. 9. 1902. DEC. 19. 1905." and "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. CO./HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." with the circled Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The serial number (266) is located on the left side of the frame above the trigger guard bow and it does not have any of the customary early Colt factory sub-inspector proofs or markings. It does have the early spur hammer with the half-cock notch and casehardened finish. The grips are that early light colored checkered walnut versions with the diamond pattern around the screws. The pistols has the Colt high-polish blue finish overall with the trigger, extractor and magazine release, having the Colt niter blued finish. Includes an unmarked all blue magazine.

Very good as professionally refinished with 90% of the bright high polish blue finish overall with a 2 inch section of dark brown patina visible on the lower right side of the slide directly at the slide markings, along with an area on the underside of the frame (see photo). The other smaller parts retain 90% of their bright nitre blue finish with 80% of the vivid case colors remaining on the hammer. The grips are in excellent condition with their original checking on both sides showing only very minor light handling marks with most of the original varnish remaining along the edges. Mechanically excellent.