This is very scarce and original example of a U.S. marked Colt Model 1900 "Sight Safety" semi-automatic pistol that was delivered in the second shipment of these much sought after early semi-automatic pistols. The Army purchased 200 of these early automatics that were delivered in two shipments. The first group used approximate serial numbers of 90-150, and the second shipment fall into serial numbers of 1600-1750. This specific pistol is stamped on the left side of the frame with the serial number, and the rare "U.S." property mark is directly below that on the front left trigger guard bow. This model is discussed and pictured in the reference book "U.S. Military Automatic Pistols, 1894-1920" by Scott Meadows on pages 25-35. This specific example is actually listed by serial number in that reference on page 32. This example retains its unaltered original rear sight safety mechanism, sixteen milled grip serrations on either side of the slide, hammer with sharp bordered knurled spur, two-piece, oil finished, walnut grips that are hand checkered on each sides and an original nickel-plated seven-shot magazine. Originally these pistols had a Colt high polish, commercial blue finish on the metal parts with a fire blue trigger, pins, and screws with the rear sight and hammer color casehardened. The slide still retains its original markings of "AUTOMATIC COLT/CALIBRE 38 RIMLESS SMOKELESS" and on the left side "BROWNING'S PATENT"/PAT'D APRIL 20. 1897" and "COLT'S PATENT FIRE ARMS MFG. CO./HARTFORD. CONN. U.S.A." The circled Rampant Colt trademark is stamped on the left rear side of the slide. The original nickel plated magazine floor plate is roll-stamped: "PAT'D SEPT. 9. 1884".

Very fine with 60% plus of the blue finish overall with a gray/brown patina mix on the front and rear grip straps and along the flat sides of the frame in those same areas. The hammer and rear sight retain 75% of their original case colors overall. The correct grips are in fine condition with a nice matching color on both sides. The markings are clear and distinct. This example will nicely fill that vacant spot in your collection!