COLT M1902 .38 CALIBER SPORTING AUTOMATIC PISTOL, FIRST YEAR PRODUCTION !!

FIRST YEAR PRODUCTION COLT M1902 !! WONDERFUL example of Colt's Model 1902 Semi-Automatic Pistol in the Sporting configuration. Manufactured in 1903 which is the first year of production according to R. L. Wilson's "Colt's Dates of Manufacture" reference book. Factory refinished to original specifications about 1920 based on an evaluation of the then current slide stampings : Left Side of Slide -- two line patent "APR.20.1897. SEPT.9.1902"; two line Hartford address; rampant Colt; Left Side of Frame -- serial number 5232; Right Side of Slide -- two line model description "AUTOMATIC COLT" over "CALIBRE 38 RIMLESS SMOKELESS". 1902 style of serrations on front of slide. Deep Colt blued finished with case colored spur hammer. Low profile front sight blade and notched read sight. Checkered, hard rubber grips with COLT in banner and rampant Colt in circle. Condition is very good to excellent with 98% of original, factory refinished bluing. Light edge wear. Scattered very light handling marks. Checkering is crisp. One spot of previous rust pitting on right side of slide near muzzle. Serial number 5232.