Colt 1911 US Navy .45 ACP 5″ Semi-Automatic Pistol MFD 1912 C&R

SOLD FOR: $5,000.00

LSB#: WY250201TM010

Make: Colt

Model: 1911 U.S. Navy

Serial Number: 13201

Year of Manufacture: 1912 (C&R Eligible)

Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Short-Recoil, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked with patent dates “PATENTED APR. 20, 1897 / SEPT. 9, 1902. DEC. 19, 1905. FEB. 14, 1911” followed by “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY.” The right side of the frame is marked “No 13201.” The right side of the slide is marked “MODEL OF 1911 U.S. Navy.” Various proof marks and inspector’s marks are also present.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a U-notch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood with double-diamond patterns. The checkering is worn, and there are some handling marks, scratches, and small dings visible throughout. There are no significant cracks or structural damage. The stock rates in about good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 7-round magazine, exhibiting wear and finish loss.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray, the rifling is well defined. There is moderate visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 40% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows moderate handling wear, thinning, patina, and scattered oxidation. There are areas of surface scratches and freckling, particularly along the slide and grip frame. The screw heads are serviceable but show wear. The markings are legible but show some wear. Overall, this pistol rates in about good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One 7-round magazine.

Our Assessment:  This is an original Colt Model 1911 U.S. Navy pistol manufactured in 1912, making it one of the early-production military-issued 1911s. As one of the first full-production years following the adoption of the 1911 design by the U.S. military, this pistol represents a critical time in the development of one of the most iconic firearms in American history.

This example features the early slide markings, “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” designation, and classic double-diamond checkered grips, all hallmarks of an early U.S. military contract pistol. Despite finish wear from over a century of age, the mechanical function remains solid, and the bore condition is excellent, making this a desirable candidate for collectors who appreciate early Colt military handguns.

Whether you’re a dedicated Colt collector, a military firearms enthusiast, or someone looking to own an authentic pre-World War I-issued sidearm, this pistol holds significant historical and collectible value. Early production 1911s like this one are increasingly rare, and this is a great opportunity to own a true piece of American military history.-C.M.