Santiago Leis Engraved Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless Type III .32 ACP Pistol
SOLD FOR: $2,226
WOA#: WY240213MC014
Make: Colt
Model: 1903, Type III Pocket Hammerless, Santiago Leis Engraved No. L000490”.
Serial Number: 425257
Year of Manufacture: 1923 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .32 ACP (7.65mm Browning)
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto Pistol with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “425257”. The right side of the slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE 32 RIMLESS SMOKELESS”. The right side of the trigger is marked “96”. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “R” with an inspection mark. The baseplate is marked “CAL.32 / COLT”.
Barrel Length: 3.75”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a short rounded blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a round-top “U” notch dovetailed into the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece ivory with gold Colt medallions. The grips show no handling wear and are free from any notable defects. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Bright Nickel Engraved
Finish Originality: Refinished & Engraved by Santiago Leis
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is well defined. There is scattered erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows no operation wear post being refinished. The screw head is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and the slide has minor play to the frame. It has a grip safety and a manual safety but does not have a magazine disconnect safety. The safety can be used to lock the slide back. We did not fire this handgun. As with all firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one 8-round magazine, two Santiago Leis Certificates of Authenticity signed by Santiago Leis and dated 2015, purchase receipt, owner’s manual and special instructions paper.
Our Assessment: Introduced in the early 20th century, the Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless was a revolutionary design by John Browning, offering a sleek, snag-free profile ideal for concealed carry. The “hammerless” nomenclature refers to the internal hammer design, which contributed to its streamlined appearance, making it a favorite among civilians and military personnel alike for its ease of carry and reliability.
Type III of the 1903 series, produced from 1910 to 1926, introduced several improvements, including a magazine safety and a more substantial barrel bushing for enhanced durability. Chambered in .32 ACP, the 1903 offered a balance of power and manageability, suitable for personal defense and law enforcement use.
The distinction of this particular Colt 1903 lies in the craftsmanship of Santiago Leis, a renowned master engraver. Leis’ work is characterized by intricate, detailed patterns that are both traditional and innovative, transforming each firearm into a unique piece of art. His engravings on the Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless elevate the pistol to a new level of elegance and exclusivity, featuring elaborate scrollwork that enhances the historical and aesthetic value of the firearm. Collectors and aficionados of finely engraved guns hold Santiago Leis’ work in high regard, and a Colt 1903 Type III engraved by him represents not just a piece of firearm history, but a work of art that embodies the pinnacle of gun engraving craftsmanship. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
