Manufactured in 1936 and featuring a rare Colt factory engraving. Experts believe that only about 151 First Series Woodsmans were factory engraved. The pistol is documented in R.L. Wilson's "The Book of Colt Engraving" on page 329 (note the different grips). According to Wilson, this pistol will factory letter as having a 6 1/2 inch barrel in .22 caliber and factory "B" engraving when it was sold and shipped to Von Lengerke & Antoine, Chicago, December 1936. Although the engraver's identity remains unknown, the work may have been done by William Gough. 80% of the surfaces feature a fine factory floral scroll engraving on a punch dot background. This beautiful engraving appears on the frame, grip straps, all sides of the slide and barrel at the muzzle and rear section. The pistol has standard Colt markings with the barrel address/patent dates information inside an engraved double line banner. The barrel has an unusual replacement front sight (missing a pin). The rear sight is a factory adjustable square notch. The front of the frame has provision for barrel weights (see image). Fitted with fully checkered panel grips and a "WOODSMAN" marked full blue magazine. The period correct box has been renumbered to the gun and features a "SPECIAL TARGET" end label. Comes with a bore brush, matching numbered test target and instructions.

Excellent, retaining 98% plus of the blue finish with the back strap thinning only slightly. The grips are excellent with crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent. The box is good with repairs and wear. Do not miss your opportunity to acquire a rarely seen factory engraved First Series Woodsman. A highly desirable specimen missing from even the most advanced Colt collections! Provenance: David S. Woloch Collection; Robert E. Petersen Collection