Rare Colt Government Model 1911 - .455 British Eley

Description

12/2/25 - This is a desirable example of a British Contract Colt Government Model semi-automatic pistol manufactured in 1918 with the "W" prefix serial number and chambered for .455. There were only about 10,000 ordered for British Ministry of Munitions contracts for the RFC and RAF Colt Government Model .455 with "W" prefix. These pieces feature the crossed pennants markings in several spots, indicating government property, as does the arrow proof on the left side of the frame. The floor plate of the two-tone lanyard loop magazine is stamped "CAL. 455/ELEY". This particular example has been expertly restored, along with the markings/proofs. The gun is retained virtually all of its refinished bluing, with mild surface scratches on the left side of slide near the muzzle, and a light takedown scratch. Minty grips. Bore is shiny with sharp rifling, but there is frost in the grooves. The letter states that this pistol was shipped to the British Ministry of Shipping on August 21, 1918.