Restored US Army WW1 Colt Model 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol 1918 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,526.00
LSB#: WY240925JT078
Make: Colt
Model: 1911 U.S. Army
Serial Number: 343266
Year of Manufacture: 1918 (C&R)
Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)
Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked with the patent dates “PATENTED APR. 20. 1897. SEPT. 9. 1902 / DEC. 19. 1905. FEB. 14. 1911. AUG. 19. 1913” followed by the Rampant Colt logo and “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the frame is marked “Nº 343266” above the trigger guard. The left side of the frame is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY.” The right side of the slide is marked “MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY.”
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a U-notch dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol is fitted with checkered walnut grips. The grips show light handling wear. The grip panels rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One period-correct 7-round magazine in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Correct Brush Blue
Finish Originality: Professionally Restored by Steve Moeller
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8.5/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains 99% of its professionally restored finish. The correct brush blue restoration performed by Steve Moeller is exceptional, with deep, rich coloration that mirrors the original wartime finish. The frame and slide exhibit minimal handling wear, and the bluing is indicative of high-end restoration work. The markings remain sharp and clear, having been carefully preserved during the restoration. The screw heads are sharp and well-defined. Overall, this pistol rates in about Excellent restored condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide has a smooth, tight fit to the frame. The safety, slide stop, and magazine release all function as intended. 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: This pistol includes a Colt archival letter verifying its original shipment details, stating that it was shipped to the United States Government at Bush Terminal, Brooklyn, New York, on June 25, 1918, as part of a 10,000-unit shipment. One magazine is included.
Our Assessment: This Colt Model 1911 is an outstanding example of a World War I-era military sidearm that has been professionally restored to near-original condition. Originally produced in 1918 and issued to the U.S. military, this pistol has undergone a meticulous restoration by Steve Moeller, with the correct brush blue finish. The result is a firearm that retains the historical accuracy and appearance of a wartime-issued 1911 while benefiting from expert craftsmanship.
The Model 1911 served as the standard-issue sidearm of the U.S. military from World War I through the mid-20th century. Its robust design, powerful .45 ACP chambering, and proven reliability make it one of the most revered service pistols in history. This example, with its correct military markings and professional restoration, is a prime collector’s piece, suitable for display or historical study.
For collectors of U.S. military firearms, this pistol represents an excellent opportunity to own a documented WWI-era Colt 1911 that has been masterfully restored. Whether as an investment-grade collectible or a centerpiece of a military pistol collection, this 1911 stands as a tribute to American craftsmanship and wartime history. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.
