SOLD - Early Colt Government Model 1911 - 1913 Mfg

Description

9/30/21 - This is an early and original Colt Government Model 1911 with Colt archive letter. Manufactured in 1913, the second year of production for the commercial Government Model. This particular example exhibits the early production lustrous high polish blue finish and nitre blue small parts and the "GOVERNMENT MODEL" marking on the front right of the frame which is rarely seen on pistols over serial number C5000. The slide on this pistol bears the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right of the slide has the caliber markings. "VP" and "R" are on the trigger guard. The early four-digit serial number is located on the right of the frame. The barrel has a polished chamber and "P" on the bottom in front of the lug. Fitted with fixed blade and notch sights, a set of diamond pattern checkered grips, and an unmarked two-tone magazine with lanyard ring base. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed) as well as shipment to Shelton Payne Arms Company in El Paso, Texas on 25 August 1918. Shelton Payne Arms was a known supplier of vast quantities of arms and ammunition to all sides involved in the Mexican Revolution, which was raging at the time this pistol was shipped. Original bluing rates at around 60% with some bluing loss on all major faces but most of the wear on the grip frame. Bore has good rifling but a little freckling throughout. Excellent wood grips with just a small patch of smoothing on the left panel.