Colt 1911, US property 1918

Colt 1911, .45 ACP

The “Model of 1911” doesn’t need any further introduction, and this is a nice example made in 1918. The serial number puts it in the 233601 – 580600 range of 1911s delivered to the US military. It is clearly a military issue pistol, but for some reason it does not have a military proof mark. We haven’t found a reasonable explanation to this, it could be that it was put aside for some reason or it could be as simple as a mistake when inspected.

As far as we can determine, it is entirely period correct. The finish is factory original and shows its age, but there are no signs of damage or abuse. The walnut grips are in excellent condition, and they are clean with very little wear. The distinctive “ghost marks” on the backs of the panels show that they have been on this gun for a very long time, so they are more than likely original to this gun. The magazine is the correct, unmarked “two tone” variation, and the aging shows that it is original and period correct. The bore is shiny with sharp rifling and some scattered, shallow corrosion spots.

The 1911 pistols have always been popular as shooters and personal defense guns, so many of them have been modified in more or less professional attempts to make them perform better. This one is more than 100 years old but has survived in unaltered condition, with is rather uncommon for these pistols.

A 1911 that will look good in any Colt or WWI collection!

C&R eligible – SOLD