Interwar Colt Government Model 1911 .45 Auto 5″ Semi-Auto Pistol, 1931 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,894.00
LSB#: LSB260130JH003
Make: Colt
Model: Government Model
Serial Number: C159348
Year of Manufacture: 1931 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber: .45 Auto
Action Type: Single action, semi-automatic, fed by detachable magazines
Barrel Length: 5″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a low profile blade with a staked into the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered wood. There is light handling wear on the grips with a few scattered pressure dings. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in Very Good Plus Condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with stubborn fouling present. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 90% of its metal finish. The firearm shows light operational and handling wear. There is light edge wear, a few minor marks through the finish, and some light pitting around the trigger guard which has been finished over. There is a light “Idiot Scratch” through the finish. The screw heads are unmarred and remain turnable. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this firearm is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This pistol precedes the Swartz firing pin safety and is not drop safe. 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: One blued Colt 7rd magazine & original box
Our Assessment: This Interwar Colt Government Model 1911 was manufactured in 1931 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic pistol. Produced by Colt during the height of commercial Government Model production between the World Wars, this pistol reflects the classic pre-World War II configuration that made Colt’s commercial 1911s highly sought after. These pistols are noted for their polished finishes, refined machining, and traditional internal design prior to later safety system developments.
Chambered in .45 Auto with a 5 inch barrel, this pistol maintains the full-size Government Model configuration synonymous with American service and sporting handguns. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition. The action functions correctly. It should be noted that this pistol predates the Swartz firing pin safety system and is not drop safe, reflecting its original early 20th century design.
This firearm has been refinished and currently retains approximately 90 percent of its metal finish, presenting a clean overall appearance. The grips rate in Very Good Plus condition with minimal visible wear. Overall, this firearm is in Very Good condition and stands as a representative example of a 1931 commercial Colt Government Model from the interwar era. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -C.R.