This is the special deluxe edition gold inlaid Chateau Thierry commemorative pistol. Only 25 of each of the 4 World War I commemoratives was a Special Deluxe. They cost $1000 each in 1967! The Special Deluxe consisted of special hand engraved guns with full coverage, Even the slide scene was hand engraved. There are gold inlaid bands at the front and rear of the slide, and the banner with "1917 WORLD WAR I COMMEMORATIVE 1967" is outlined in gold. This work was done by Alvin White, world famous engraver of Sandwich, Mass., who contracted with Colt to do these guns. This is verified by an ingot set into the frame under the right grip which has the raised marking "Colts A.A. WHITE ENGR." Checkered walnut grips with bronze medallions reading: "1917-1918: WORLD WAR" and "CHATEAU THIERRY" on the left grip, and on the right grip is another medallion listing our allies in the war. All metal is in full high polish royal blue finish. One of a set of four serialized alike.

Excellent overall with 99% original royal blue finish. The chamber area of the barrel does show some light spotting.

Manufactured in 1968 with standard markings and features of the commemorative.

Excellent overall with 99% plus original blue finish. There is some spotting on the polished sides of the hammer and in the slide serrations as well as some very minor surface scratches. The grips have some light handling marks.

Manufactured in 1969 with standard markings and features of the commemorative.

Excellent overall with 99% original blue finish, minimal light handling marks and some very light spotting on the chamber area of the barrel.

Manufactured in 1968 with standard markings and features of the commemorative.

Excellent overall with 99% original blue finish. Some of the gold wash in the lettering and engravings has faded.