Engraved Colt Commander Model 1911 .45 ACP 4 1/4″ Semi-Automatic Pistol

SOLD FOR: $2,213.99

LSB#: LSB260123DG007

Make: Colt

Model: Commander

Serial Number: 70BS74476

Year of Manufacture: 1978 (Factory Letter)

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic with Removable Magazine

Markings: Several of the factory markings have been removed and replaced by the engraving. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” and “ 70BS74476”. The barrel at the port is marked “-COLT .45 AUTO-”. The trigger guard is marked with a Colt “VP” proof mark and a “P”. 

Engraving:  The gun has been hand engraved with deep relief scroll engraving.  The engraving is on both sides of the slide, frame, backstrap and Beavertail grip safety. The engraving is so deep in fact that a tiny spot went through the right side of the slide at the muzzle.  The gun is outfitted with all fire blued screws and pins and stag grips.  

Barrel Length: 4 ¼”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a low rounded blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece stag horn grips that have excellent  character. There are very few light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Buffed to White

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is stubborn fouling present in the grooves and at the muzzle.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its current metal refinish. There are polishing marks on the smooth portions of the slide, frame and trigger guard.  Much of the barrel address has been buffed to almost smooth. The engraving has gone through on the right-front of the slide at the bushing slot. There are operational and storage marks on the trigger and back strap. There is light operational wear on the barrel, chamber and trigger.  The screw heads are sharp and the markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Very Good condition as custom engraved.

Mechanics: This pistol has a tight slide and a crisp trigger. 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 standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a Colt Factory letter that states it was shipped on April 14th, 1978 to Simmons Gun Specialties in Olathe, KS as one of a 3-gun shipment. It was originally finished in Blue which was stripped when the aftermarket engraving was done.  This pistol comes with on  8-round Colt  magazine

Our Assessment: The Colt Commander 1911 is a compact variation of the legendary Colt M1911 platform, offering the same proven design in a slightly reduced size for improved carry and handling. Chambered in .45 ACP, the Commander model has long been favored for its balance of power, reliability, and ergonomics, continuing the legacy of one of the most respected handgun designs of the 20th century.

This example stands out due to its extensive custom engraving and upgraded aesthetic features. The deep relief scroll engraving covers much of the slide and frame, along with the backstrap and beavertail grip safety, giving the pistol a highly distinctive and ornate appearance. The addition of fire-blued screws and pins, along with stag horn grips, further enhances its custom presentation. It is worth noting that the engraving is quite deep, with a small area at the muzzle where it has penetrated through the slide.

The pistol remains in very good overall condition with a strong refinish, bright bore, and tight mechanical function. Light wear and polishing marks are present, consistent with customization and handling, but the pistol retains strong visual appeal and functionality. As a custom-engraved Colt Commander with unique artistic features, this piece offers both collector interest and practical shootability. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

BF