Lot 430: U.S. World War II Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless Pistol

Manufactured in 1943 with "U.S. PROPERTY" mark on the right side of the frame. Matching number slide and frame. Introduced as a commercial pistol, the 1903 was adopted by the U.S. military after proving a commercial success and became the standard sidearm for General Officers during WWII and still issued into the 1970s. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed) as well as shipment to Springfield Armory on 30 January 1945. The consignor notes that this pistol was inherited from Olive Maxwell, widow of Brigadier General Alfred Maxwell, who was appointed director of operations of U.S. Strategic Air Forces in Europe in 1944. This pistols serial number falls in the middle of known General Officer pistols with 569718 and 569726 both identified. Includes a Kraft style box numbered to another pistol (569711), which is listed as issued to Brigadier General T.L. Hobin.

Excellent, retains 99% plus of the arsenal refurbished parkerized finish with some scattered very light handling marks. The grips are also excellent with a few scattered light blemishes in the otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The replacement magazine is for a .380 Colt Auto. The box is very good with mild wear and a few tears.