Colt Series ’70 MK IV Gold Cup National Match 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1625
LSB#: 220112HR001
Make: Colt
Model: Series ‘70 MK IV Gold Cup National Match
Serial#: 70N43523
Year of Manufacture: 1977 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup), C&R (https://www.atf.gov/firearms/docs/undefined/curios-and-relics-list-2018/download)
Caliber/Gauge: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The right side of the slide is marked ”GOLD CUP / NATIONAL MATCH” and with an engraving of a trophy cup. The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S MK IV/SERIES ’70 / GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH / .45 AUTOMATIC CALIBER” with the rampant Colt logo. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A. / 70N43523”. The barrel is marked “COLT 45 AUTO N.M. / MK.IV/SERIES ‘70″. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “U” and “VP” in a triangle. The right side of the trigger guard is marked with an incomplete inspector’s mark. The rear sight is marked “ELLIASON”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the full-length rib on the top of the slide. The rear sight is an Elliason square notch sight adjustable for windage and elevation (the elevation screw is missing) pinned to the slide. The top of the rib is serrated and the top of the slide is matte finished for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are fish-scale textured laminate wood. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered minor marks including light “idiot marks” under the slide stop on the left of the frame. The action shows light operational wear. The rear sight’s elevation adjustment screw is missing. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screwheads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit has some light play. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: Included is a serial matching box with a single 7-round magazine, marked “C-R” on the bottom and “R” on the top of the floorplate (WWII Risdon production magazine). The magazine has operational wear and minor surface oxidation with intact feed lips and a strong spring.
Our Assessment: Introduced as an off-the-shelf target pistol, Colt’s Gold Cup National Match 1911s have been a benchmark standard of quality for decades. There have been some variations since their introduction in the late ’50s, the Series ’70 introduced a collet barrel bushing, series ’80 a firing pin safety, and newer models offered various combinations of features, grips and sights. This is one of the Series ’70 Gold Cup National Match pistols made in 1977. The pistol is in Very Good-plus condition, appearing to have seen light use over the years. The rear sight’s elevation adjustment screw is missing, but once that is replaced, this ought to make for a fine shooter. Whether you’re looking for a great 1911-style target pistol or want to add a Gold Cup National Match to your collection, this is a nice old pony. Please see our photos and good luck!