Colt Gold Cup National Match 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto SA Pistol, 1969 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,325.00
LSB#: LSB250807TR004
Make: Colt
Model: Gold Cup National Match
Serial Number: 32397NM
Year of Manufacture: 1969 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol fed by Detachable Magazines
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the full-length rib on the top of the slide. The rear sight is an Elliason square notch sight adjustable for windage and elevation pinned to the slide. The top of the rib is serrated and the top of the slide is matte finished for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece fully checkered walnut with gold-colored “COLT” medallions in their centers. There is minimal wear on the grips. The checkering is sharp and well defined with only some faintly worn peaks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent Condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. The firearm shows light operational and handling wear. The finish shows only a few minor surface blemishes. The screw heads are unmarred and remain turnable. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine+ condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger pull is crisp. There is minimal play between the slide and frame. This pistol has manual and grip safeties. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a blued Colt 7rd magazine.
Our Assessment: In the mid-1900s the 1911 was used for all manner of pistol competitions, but the base Government model typically needed some tweaking and modification to get the best performance. In 1957, Colt introduced their Gold Cup National Match, an out-of-the-box, purpose-built target pistol with adjustable target sights, hand-fit parts, serrated grip frame and adjustable trigger. This example is from 1969, a fairly early Gold Cup made only one year before the pistols would actually be marked “GOLD CUP”. It looks great for its age, retaining about 98% of its metal finish, a strong bore and good mechanics. All of these old National Match pistols are collectible, this early example will make a great addition to a collection, but should also prove to be a great shooter. Be sure to check our detailed pictures for a better understanding of the firearm. -C.R.
