Colt 1911 Mark IV Series ‘70 Government Model .45 ACP 5” Semi-Auto Pistol
SOLD FOR: $1,004.00
LSB#: LSB250929HR056
Make: Colt
Model: Series ’70 Government Model
Serial Number: 45324G70
Year of Manufacture: 1978 / Modern
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The right side of the slide is marked, “COLT’S GOVERNMENT MODEL”. The left side of the slide is marked, “COLT’S MKIV / SERIES ‘70 GOVERNMENT MODEL 45 AUTOMATIC CALIBER”. The right side of the frame is marked, “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A. 45324G70”. The left side of the trigger guard is marked with a P at the front and V at the rear. The chamber is marked “COLT .45 AUTO. / MK. IV/ SERIES ‘70”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is an adjustable BO-MAR rectangular notch sight dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are Pachmayr Signature Model checkered rubber overmolded grips. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in about Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 7rd 45 ACP magazine in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is light fouling down the length. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 93% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational and handling wear. There is an “idiot” mark on the left side of the frame. There are a few scattered light scratches. There are some tool marks on top of the slide at the front sight. There is thinning on the top of the slide. The serrations and screw heads are sharp. The pin heads are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit is tight with very little 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 & Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Colt Series 70 Government Model remains one of the most iconic and collectible variants in the long history of the 1911. Introduced in 1970, this generation marked Colt’s transition into modern commercial production while still preserving the classic lines, forged components, and overall craftsmanship that defined earlier eras. The Series 70 collet bushing system—designed to enhance mechanical accuracy—became a defining feature, and these pistols have since become highly sought after by shooters and collectors for their balance of tradition and performance.
This 1978 example has been upgraded with a BO-MAR adjustable rear sight, a popular accuracy enhancement among competitors and serious shooters of the period. The pistol retains about 93% of its original blue finish, showing light operational wear and a few cosmetic marks typical of a well-used but well-maintained Government Model. The bore remains bright at 9/10, the slide-to-frame fit is notably tight, and the Pachmayr Signature grips provide secure handling. With strong mechanics, a clean bore, and its classic Series 70 character intact, this Colt offers both shooting utility and collectible appeal as one of the definitive commercial 1911s of the late 20th century. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
