ATLAS
COLLECTIBLE FIREARMS

Atlas Collectible Firearms is proud to present this incredibly rare Colt Experimental Prototype .22 Pistol, a unique piece of Hartford engineering history that was never released for full-scale commercial production. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, this semi-automatic specimen features a 4.5-inch barrel specifically manufactured with flat sides, a distinct design departure from standard production rimfire pistols. This pistol was retained by the Colt factory as an experimental example of a design intended to be a lower-priced semi-automatic offering before eventually being sold at auction.

The aesthetic of this prototype is truly one-of-a-kind, featuring a specialized plated finish that appears to be Electroless Nickel, applied with a matte texture on the sides of the pistol. The slide is completely devoid of markings, and notably, the frame lacks the iconic Rampant Colt logo, further emphasizing its experimental status. It is fitted with smooth, varnished oak grip panels that provide a warm, organic contrast to the plated steel. The pistol is equipped with simple sport-type open sights, and several mechanical components—including the trigger, sideplate, thumb safety, and magazine—feature a deep factory blued finish.

This Colt is in pristine condition, having been meticulously preserved as a factory-held asset for years. This investment-grade package is historically significant, featuring the original maroon "Heritage of Craftsmanship" factory box with the serial number handwritten on the end flap. Crucially, the pistol is accompanied by a formal authentication letter from Colt’s Archive Properties LLC, signed by Historian Beverly Jean Haynes, which verifies its prototype status and shipment to Greg Martin Auctions in 2008. For the advanced Colt collector, this experimental rimfire represents an exceptionally rare opportunity to own a verified "X-numbered" piece of the company's research and development heritage.