Colt Gold Cup National Match Stainless 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, 1988

Sold for 2612.06

Make: Colt

Model: Gold Cup National Match Mark IV Series ’80

Serial Number: SN15481

Year of Manufacture: 1988 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol.

Markings: The right side of the slide is marked “GOLD CUP / NATIONAL MATCH” with a trophy. The left side of the slide is marked “SERIES ’80 COLT MK IV / GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH” with a rampant Colt logo. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A. / SN15481”. There is a “VP” in triangle proof on the left side of the trigger guard along with “N”, the right of the trigger guard is marked “H”. The top of the barrel is marked “-COLT 45 AUTO. N.M.-“.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an aftermarket ramped Millett blade with a white “T” reference that is fixed to the finely serrated top rib of the slide. The rear sight is an Elliason square notch that is adjustable for windage and elevation pinned to the rear of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The aftermarket grips are two-piece smooth mother of pearl panels with silver Colt medallions. There are a few little scratches and hairline cracks on the left panel at the bottom grip screw. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Stainless Steel

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 96% of its metal finish. There are some scattered scuffs, draglines, and a few little nicks. Some of the marks have caused smooth spots to the stainless finish, most noticeable on the matter surfaces. There are some scattered handling marks. There are some spots of dark discoloration on the grip safety. There is standard operational wear. The screw heads are lightly worn with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide has very little play to the frame. The trigger is light and crisp. 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: This pistol comes in a maroon cardboard Colt box matching serial number under a Custom Shop label, we are dubious about the custom shop label. In addition to the box a 7-round magazine and paperwork including the manual are included.

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 later Series ’80 Gold Cup National Match pistols with a stainless finish, Elliason sight pinned to its ribbed slide, and mother of pearl grips with silver Colt medallions. The pistol is in Excellent condition, appearing to have spent most of the last 30 years in the included factory box. 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!