Which one is the American Handgun?

[T.Stahl]

I say 1911A1, and so does my brother.

 

[Legionnaire]

Colt 1911 ... and I don't even own one.

 

[JimC]

It just has to be the Colt 1873 SAA, especially a 7 1/2" .45 Colt version.
Look at the US history associated with this fine firearm.

The Colt 1911 (1911A1) is my choice for a very close 2nd.

All the others "came after" even though there are some good ones.