Colt Eldorado Gold Cup National Match 5″ .38 Super SemiAuto Pistol, C&R

SOLD FOR: $6125

LSB#: 220927HE005

Make: Colt

Model: Gold Cup National Match “Eldorado”, Lew Horton Exclusive

Serial Number: ELD0R121

Year of Manufacture: 1992, ATF C&R

Caliber: .38 Super

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol with Removable Magazine

Markings: The right side of the slide is marked “GOLD CUP / NATIONAL MATCH” with a trophy cup, the left is marked “Eldorado / -COLT 38 SUPER-” with rampant colt. The right of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A. / ELDOR121”. The left of the trigger guard is marked “2” and “VP” in triangle. The right of the trigger guard is marked “D”. The magazine floorplate is marked with a rampant colt, “M”, “S”, “COLT” and “SUPER / .38 AUTO”. The top of the barrel is marked “-COLT SUPER 38 AUTO-“.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the slide and the rear sight is an Elliason square notch adjustable for windage and elevation pinned into the slide. There is a serrated, solid rib along the top of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth Pearlite grips with Colt medallions. The grips have a few scattered minor marks, but no notable wear or damage. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Brite Stainless

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling sharp. There is no erosion. In the opinion of this writer, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are some scattered minor scuffs and tiny scratches. The action shows minor operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide has almost no play to the frame. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in a blue plastic Colt case. The Original serial matching cardboard outer case is included as well. The exterior of the case shows minor storage wear. Paperwork including the owner’s manual  is included. The gun comes with one magazine.

Our Assessment: This pistol is a beautiful Colt Gold Cup National Match pistol with a gorgeous bright stainless steel finish set off nicely by the pearlite grip panels. This pistol is part of a series of Lew Horton specials produced for Colt in the ’90s, known in the collector world as the “El” series. Each of these specials was produced in a limited quantity with only 531 of the Eldorado pistols produced. This series is both wonderful and terrible for collectors as there were about 40 different models, from the El Jefe to El Coronel to El Presidente and more. This Eldorado is in Fine condition and comes with its original case, ready to add to a collection or to carry to your next barbecue. Please take a look at our photos and good luck with your bidding!

As always, Keep Your Powder Dry and Bid High!

-Andrew G.