Colt Pre-Gold Cup National Match 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, 1969 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2325
LSB#: 210719HE01
Make: Colt
Model: Gold Cup National Match
Serial Number: 35331-NM
Year of Manufacture: 1969 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol
Markings: The left of the slide is marked “NATIONAL / *MATCH*”, “COLT”, “AUTOMATIC / CALIBER .45” and with a rampant colt, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”. The right of the frame is marked with the serial number. The right of the trigger guard is marked “0”, the left is marked “S” and “VP” in triangle. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT .45 AUTO N.M.”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade that is fixed into the serrated top rib of the slide. The rear sight is an Elliason square notch that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, but there is some dark discoloration on the right panel. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered minor marks, mostly on the slide flats. The action shows minor operational wear. The slide has a plum hue. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This pistol features a National Match barrel, adjustable rear sight, and wide, serrated adjustable trigger. The trigger is crisp. The slide has no play to the frame. We did not fire this handgun. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories:
– Two-piece cardboard Colt Gold Cup Automatic National Match box.
– Factory paperwork including manual and test-target.
– One 7-round Colt magazine.
Our Assessment: In the mid-1900s the 1911 was used for all manner of pistol competitions, but the base Government model typically needed some tweaking and modification to get the best performance. In 1957, Colt introduced their Gold Cup National Match, an out-of-the-box, purpose-built target pistol with adjustable target sights, hand-fit parts, serrated grip frame and adjustable trigger. This example is from 1969, a fairly early Gold Cup made just before the pistols would actually be marked “GOLD CUP”. It appears to have seen little use, retaining about 97% of its metal finish, a great bore and strong mechanics. All of these old National Match pistols are collectible, this early example will make a great addition to a collection, but should also prove to be a great shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!