Colt 1911 Government Model Semi-Automatic .45 ACP 5” C&R MFD 1924

SOLD FOR: $3,740.00

LSB#: WY250310TP019

Make: Colt

Model: 1911 Government Model

Serial Number: C138281

Year of Manufacture: 1924 (C&R Eligible)

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC CALIBRE .45” with the Rampant Colt logo. The right side of the frame is marked “GOVERNMENT MODEL” and the serial number “C138281.” The serial number is also under the firing pin plate. The right side of the slide is marked “Colt Automatic calibre .45”. The left side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” followed by the patent dates “PAT’D APR. 20. 1897. SEPT. 9. 1902. DEC. 19. 1905. FEB. 14. 1911. AUG. 19. 1913.” The barrel is marked “COLT 45 AUTO.”

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a u-notch dovetailed to the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut panels with double-diamond patterns. There is wear to the checkering, handling marks, and minor compressions, but no major cracks or chips. The stocks rate in about Good to Very Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One blued steel magazine, 7-round capacity, in Good condition with some finish wear and handling marks.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its original finish. The balance of the finish shows thinning, handling wear, and finish loss at high edges. There are scattered light scratches and some minor oxidation visible. The screw heads are serviceable but lightly tooled. The markings are crisp and well-defined. Overall, this pistol rates in about Very 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 magazine included and a Letter from Colt

Our Assessment: The Colt Government Model is one of the most iconic semi-automatic pistols in history, having served in both military and civilian capacities for over a century. This particular example, manufactured in 1924, is a commercial production model that retains much of its original finish, along with its correct walnut grips and markings.

The pre-World War II Colts are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and finish quality. This example still displays strong mechanics and a solid bore, making it a fantastic piece for both collectors and shooters. The “C” prefix in the serial number indicates this is a civilian-market Government Model, which saw commercial sales before the war.

For collectors of classic Colt 1911 pistols, this is a fine opportunity to acquire an authentic pre-war Colt Government Model. Whether for display or as a part of a collection, this .45 ACP is a great representation of the craftsmanship and durability that made Colt a household name. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.