Colt Ace .22LR 1981 Colt Custom Shop Signature Special Edition 01974ESB
SOLD FOR: $1,303.00
LSB#: WY250122JE004
Make: Colt
Model: Ace (Model 01974ESB)
Serial Number: SM35849
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is an adjustable target-style notch sight.
Markings: The slide features gold etching on both sides, including scrollwork and banners celebrating Sam Colt. The left side of the slide is etched with the Colt factory dome and marked “1836 Sam Colt 1981” inside a gold-etched banner, with floral scroll engraving flanking both sides. The right side of the slide features matching scrollwork, with “Colt Ace 22 Long Rifle – Hartford, Ct.” in cursive script. The Colt Custom Shop coat-of-arms is also engraved to the rear of the slide serrations on both sides.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol is fitted with smooth rosewood grips featuring bronze-tone Colt Custom Shop coat-of-arms medallions. The grips are in excellent condition, with no major handling marks or wear.
Type of Finish: Polished Blue & Matte Finish with Gold Etching
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no signs of corrosion.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains approximately 90% of its original finish. There is oxidation throughout the firearm from storage, with heavy visible corrosion around the muzzle and on the hammer. The gold etching has faded in some spots. There is a small scratch on the left side of the slide that slightly cuts through the banner. The screw heads are sharp and undamaged.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide cycles smoothly, the trigger breaks cleanly, and all safeties operate as intended. 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: This pistol comes with its original Colt Custom Shop cardboard box with a green label, a wooden display box, a Colt belt buckle, and a factory 10-round magazine stamped “COLT .22L.R.” on the base. The cardboard box has a misspelling on the label, reading “SEPCIAL” instead of “SPECIAL.” The belt buckle is in very good condition.
Our Assessment: This Colt Ace .22LR Model 01974ESB is a Colt Custom Shop Signature Special Edition, manufactured in 1981. Designed as a full-sized 1911-pattern pistol chambered in .22LR, the Colt Ace was an accurate, reliable training pistol that maintained the weight and feel of the original Government Model.
While this example shows oxidation from storage, with visible corrosion around the muzzle, light oxidation on the hammer, and fading gold etching in some areas, it remains a highly collectible piece. The left slide bears a minor scratch that affects part of the gold-etched banner, but the markings and design remain clear. Despite these signs of wear, the mechanics are fully functional, the bore is in excellent condition, and the original box and accessories, including the Colt belt buckle, remain with the firearm.
Complete with its original factory box (with a rare factory misspelling), display case, and belt buckle, this pistol is an outstanding example of Colt’s craftsmanship. For Colt collectors, 1911 enthusiasts, or those seeking an elegant yet functional rimfire pistol, this 1981 Colt Custom Shop Ace remains a worthy collectible with a unique history and custom shop pedigree. Whether displayed or carefully preserved, it is a distinctive and special piece of Colt’s legacy. So bid high and bid firm. Please take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
