U.S. Army Colt M1917 New Service 5 1/2″ .45 ACP Double Action Revolver

SOLD FOR: $1,275.00

LSB#: 250118KP019

Make: Colt

Model: M1917

Serial Number: 195554

Year of Manufacture: 1919

Caliber: .45 ACP (Moon Clips Required)

Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT D.A. 45.” The top of the barrel is marked with Colt’s two-line patent and address. The frame is marked with the rampant Colt logo and “U.S. PROPERTY” under the barrel. The butt is marked with the serial number and military ordnance markings. The cylinder is marked with U.S. military acceptance marks. Th left side of the barrel is marked “4812”. The right side of the frame behind the cylinder is marked “S” along with the “Crossed Cannons Insignia”. The right side of the frame beneath the cylinder is marked “T”. Inside the crane  cut is marked “3” “H” and “195554” over “t” over “4812”

Barrel Length: 5 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a U-notch groove in the top strap.

Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered polymer. They show light handling wear, with minor dings and handling marks, light chips near the butt, but no cracks or significant damage. They rate in about Very Good condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: This revolver is fed using full-moon or half-moon clips (not included).

Type of Finish: Military Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion or fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 75% of its original finish. There is expected operational wear, thinning on high edges, and scattered handling marks. There is a nice brown patina forming on the trigger guard and backstrap Lots of finish missing from the muzzle. The markings are clear, and the screw heads are sharp. The cylinder locks up well with minimal play. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double-action trigger pull is smooth, and the single-action break is crisp. The cylinder locks up properly, and the ejector functions as intended. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with a full U.S. military web gear set, including a holster, belt, suspenders, lanyard, first aid kit, pouches, and the highly coveted USMC triple ammo pouch.

Our Assessment: The Colt M1917 was designed as a stopgap measure during World War I when the U.S. military faced a shortage of M1911 pistols. Chambered in .45 ACP and designed to use moon clips, the M1917 revolver was a highly reliable sidearm that saw extensive use by American forces throughout both World Wars and beyond.

This particular example, manufactured around 1919, retains 75% of its original finish and is in Very Good condition. The bore is exceptionally sharp, and the revolver remains mechanically sound. What sets this piece apart is its incredible collection of period-correct accessories, including the holster, belt, suspenders, lanyard, first aid kit, and the rare USMC triple ammo pouch.

For collectors of U.S. military firearms, this is a fantastic opportunity to own a historically significant revolver with a complete field gear set. The M1917 has a rich history of service, and this example is an excellent addition to any collection, offering both historical value and investment potential.