Colt Model 1908 .380 ACP Auto Semi-Automatic Pistol MFD 1929 – Box, Papers, Hang Tag & More – C&R OK

SOLD FOR: $2,928.31
Make: Colt
Model: Model 1908
Serial Number: 95801
Year of Manufacture: 1929
Caliber: .380 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A. / PATENTED APR. 20 1897 DEC. 22 1903”. There is a Rampant Colt logo on the left rear of the slide. The left side of the frame is marked “95801”. There is a “w” and a Verified Proof Mark on the left trigger guard bow. The right side of the slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE .380 HAMMERLESS”. The right trigger guard bow is marked “91”.
Barrel Length: 3 ¾”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a dovetail set notch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut, with silver colored medallions at the tops. The checkering only has light wear and remains quite sharp. There is discoloration from age and oil. The left panel shows almost no wear, though there is some wear on the right panel at the heel. The grips rate in about Fine (almost Excellent) overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with some fouling and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 92% of its metal finish. There is edge / holster wear at the front of the slide and frame. There is also a bit of thinning on the trigger and the rear of the slide from operation. The balance of the wear is from storage and can be seen as general surface marking and light scratching. There is one ding on the right side of the slide, near the muzzle. There are some specks of surface frosting in the serrations and behind them on the slide. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine (almost Excellent) condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly. We did not fire this handgun.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One two tone magazine, marked “CAL .380 / COLT” is provided. This magazine is also in Fine condition with light surface scratches. The original Factory Hang Tag is also provided, showing light staining and discoloration. The hang tag is in Very Good condition. The cleaning brush, Special Instructions pamphlet and Disassembly Sheet are also included. The paperwork has all discolored a bit, with tattered edges, but they are complete. Finally, the original box is included. The serial number is in pencil on the back and there is a strip of old tape remaining, once used to seal the lid. The box shows edge wear, though the corners are sound everywhere but at the hinge on the lid. The box rates in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: This gun is a variant of the Model 1903, only in a larger caliber. Like the 1903s, these were frequently issued to Generals and even preferred over the .32s. These guns have seen an explosion in desirability lately, partly driven by their inherent collectability and partly by their practicality as a shooter, even after all of these years. This gun comes with the original serial numbered box and accessories. This is rarely seen and makes this desirable pistol a must have for the collector.