Scarce and Highly Desirable Factory Engraved Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer Semi-Automatic Pistol with Ivory Grips and Factory Letter
A remarkably scarce and highly attractive Colt collectible, this 1925 factory-engraved Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer pistol stands out as one of the rarest engraved examples of the model. With documented factory lettering, ivory grips, Grade 2 engraving, and strong attribution to Colt Master Engraver Wilbur Glahn, it offers exceptional appeal for advanced Colt collectors.
- Manufactured in 1925
- Factory-engraved Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer pistol
- Documented in “The Book of Colt Firearms” by Sutherland and Wilson as an exceptionally scarce variation:
- The authors indicate that only approximately 15 Model 1903 Pocket Hammer pistols were factory engraved
- Includes a Colt factory letter confirming:
- Caliber: .38
- Barrel length: not listed
- Finish: blue
- Grips: ivory
- Engraving: Grade 2 factory engraving
- Shipped to Von Lengerke & Antoine in Chicago, Illinois
- Shipment date: 23 December 1925
- Listed as the only gun of its type in order no. 10796/1
- Engraving is not specifically attributed on the factory letter, but the work was almost certainly executed by Colt factory Master Engraver Wilbur Glahn
- Masterfully executed factory scroll engraving:
- Scrollwork covers more than half of the pistol’s surfaces
- Features matted backgrounds that enhance depth and contrast
- Scroll pattern is very typical of Wilbur Glahn’s recognized style
- Left side of the slide features:
- Two-line and two-block patent and address markings
- Rampant Colt marking at the rear of the slide
- Right side of the slide features:
- Two-line caliber marking
- Serial number is located on the left side of the frame
- Left side of the trigger guard is marked:
- “1” over “VP”
- Fitted with standard blade front sight and notch rear sight
- Equipped with a checkered spur hammer
- Fitted with a pair of very attractive smooth ivory grips
- Ivory grips feature Colt medallions at the tops
- A standout collector-grade Colt with rare factory engraving, desirable 1920s production, documented shipment history, and strong association with one of Colt’s most respected master engravers
Very fine, retains 75% plus of the original blue finish and 70% of the original case colors on the hammer with some mild holster/handling wear showing mostly a smooth grey patina, a few scattered minor dings, and crisp engraving. The grips are also very fine with a few light handling marks and an attractively aged tone. Mechanically excellent. These factory engraved Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammer pistols are very scarce and would make a fantastic addition to your Colt automatics collection!
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