Collectors and firearms historians prize early military contracts for the insight they give into transitional design choices and service trials. Few pieces better illustrate that moment of experimentation than a scarce early semi-automatic Colt produced for the U.S. military in 1902.

COLT MODEL 1902 MILITARY MARKED US ARMY CONTRACT

Historical context

This contract of just 200 pistols was shipped on July 18, 1902, as part of early U.S. military trials with semi-automatic handguns. The brief service evaluation exposed practical shortcomings that prevented follow-on orders: a relatively small caliber for the period, a muzzle-heavy balance on the long-barrel variants, and reports of misfire and jamming under field conditions. Those very shortcomings make surviving examples historically significant and highly collectible.

Shop this product to see current listing details and provenance information on the retailer page.

Technical evaluation

Caliber and barrel

The COLT MODEL 1902 MILITARY MARKED US ARMY CONTRACT is chambered in 38 ACP and fitted with a 6″ barrel. The 38 ACP was designed to offer greater power than earlier pocket calibers while remaining manageable in recoil; the 6″ barrel improves velocity and sight radius for more accurate aimed fire, but it also contributes to the muzzle-heavy feel noted by inspectors.

Design features and markings

This example carries serial number 15053 and is one of the earliest 1902 military models with a knurled slide. Notable U.S. military identifiers include the “U.S.” stamped on the left side of the front trigger guard bow and military inspector marks on the right side of the frame—exactly the sort of provenance collectors seek. Finish is described as very fine, retaining approximately 80% of original blue, with excellent grips.

Condition, rarity, and pricing

With only 200 produced in the contract, surviving pistols in this condition are scarce. The offered price of $17,995.99 reflects both historical significance and original condition. The listing appears under the Semi Auto category and includes detailed photos and provenance notes for serious collectors.

How to proceed

If provenance, early military markings, and a 6″ 38 ACP package interest you, View product details and pricing on the shop page where the retailer provides the purchase link and full condition report. For availability and purchase, Check current availability.

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