Colt 1903 Type IV with Wood Grips?

[sentinel89]

Good afternoon,

I have a 1903 Colt in .32 ACP. My grandfather left it to me. Although I'm not an expert, I would say she's in very good condition - 95% or better. Blueing is immaculate, no rust, pitting or scratches. Mag appears to be original. My camera is broken or I would post a pic.

Serial number range makes it a Type IV: 478XXX. But in researching this pistol, I have discovered they were issued with checkered hard rubber grips. Mine has checkered wood grips with medallions.

Without sending off for a letter from Colt, does anyone know if this pistol may have been issued with checkered wood grips instead of the standard hard rubber?

This is a precious gun to me. And although I would never sell it, I'm just wondering if she is more valuable with the wood grips. I'd like to get her insured for the full value.

Thanks for your time.

 

[forindooruseonly]

The hard rubber grips were discontinued with the Type III's, IIRC. So, yes it is probably a correct gun. As for value, I don't have my blue book handy, so maybe someone else can fill you in.

Check gunbroker, anyway. That seems to be a better indication of what people are asking, though I've had issues with insurance companies who like to stick to the best printed reference - in this case the blue book.