Colt MK IV Series ’70 Gold Cup National Match .45 ACP 5″ 1911 Pistol 1981
SOLD FOR: $1,170
WOA#: WY231129WOA003
Make: Colt
Model: Series ‘70 MK IV Gold Cup National Match
Serial#: 70N97752
Year of Manufacture: 1981 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber/Gauge: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The right side of the slide is marked ”GOLD CUP / NATIONAL MATCH” and with an engraving of a trophy cup. The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S MK IV/SERIES ’70 / GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH / .45 AUTOMATIC CALIBER” with the rampant Colt logo. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” and has the serial number “70N97752”. The barrel is marked “COLT .45 AUTO. N.M. / MK.IV/SERIES ‘70?. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in a triangle and “B”.
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 and is 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/ Grip: The grip is a checkered black rubber Pachmayr grip that wraps around the front strap. The checkering is crisp and the peaks are sharp. Overall the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is some thinning on the front edges of the slide. There is some wear on the back of the frame just below the slide. There is some finish wear on the serrations of the mainspring housing. There are a few scattered light marks. The screwheads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. There is corrosion in the serrations and in the screw head slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit is snug. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: Included is a single 7-round magazine, its factory box, owner’s manual,
Our Assessment: Introduced as an off-the-shelf target pistol, Colt’s Gold Cup National Match 1911s have been a benchmark standard of quality for decades. There have been some variations since their introduction in the late ’50s, the Series ’70 introduced a collet barrel bushing, series ’80 a firing pin safety, and newer models offered various combinations of features, grips and sights. This is one of the Series ’70 Gold Cup National Match pistols made in 1979. The pistol is in Fine condition, appearing to have seen only some light use. Whether you’re looking for a great 1911-style target pistol or want to add a Gold Cup National Match to your collection, this is the choice for you. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.