Colt Model 1911 US Navy .45 ACP Semi-Automatic Pistol C&R MFD 1915
SOLD FOR: $4,177.00
LSB#: WY250201TM009
Make: Colt
Model: 1911 U.S. Navy
Serial Number: 101909
Year of Manufacture: 1915 (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 “PATENTED APR. 20. 1897. SEPT. 9. 1902 / DEC. 19. 1905. FEB. 14. 1911. AUG. 19. 1913” followed by “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the slide is marked “MODEL OF 1911 U.S. Navy.” The left side of the frame is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY.” The serial number “No 101909” is marked on the right side of the frame.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed rounded blade. The rear sight is a U-notch dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut with a double-diamond pattern. There is moderate wear, with handling marks and some flattening of the checkering, but no significant cracks or losses. The stocks rate in about good-very good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 7-round magazine in good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Mostly Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 60% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows general wear, including thinning on the slide and frame, edge wear, handling marks, and some scattered freckling. Some of the markings have been scrubbed on and cold blue applied. The grip straps exhibit some finish loss, and there are areas of patina. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are lightly tooled with serviceable slots. Overall, this pistol rates in about 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 7-round magazine.
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1911 is one of the most iconic handguns in American military history, serving as the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. Armed Forces for over seven decades. This example, manufactured in 1915, is an early production piece that retains its original markings and finish, making it highly desirable among collectors.
As a World War I-era service pistol, it represents an important part of American military history. The classic blued finish, U.S. Property markings, and original configuration make this an excellent addition to any historical firearm collection. While it does exhibit honest wear from use and handling, it remains mechanically sound and aesthetically appealing.
This 1911 would be a fine acquisition for enthusiasts of military sidearms, collectors of U.S. service weapons, or those looking for a historically significant .45 ACP pistol to display and appreciate. Given its 1915 manufacture date, it is also C&R eligible, making it more accessible to collectors.-C.M.
