Russian Contract Colt Government Model 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,750.00

LSB#: WY250310TP027

Make: Colt

Model: 1911 Government Model

Serial Number: C75847

Year of Manufacture: 1917, C&R Eligible

Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single-Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “????. ??????” translates to English Order.  The left side of the slide is marked “PATENTED APR. 20. 1897. SEPT. 9. 1902 / DEC. 19. 1905. FEB. 14. 1911. AUG. 19. 1913” and “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the slide is marked “COLT AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE .45”. The right side of the frame is marked “GOVERNMENT MODEL” and “C75847”. The left side of the trigger guard is marked with a “VP” in a triangle proof. The rear of the slide has a faint Colt rampant horse logo.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a U-notch dovetailed to the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol is fitted with double-diamond checkered walnut grips. The grips show handling wear, softening to the checkering, and scattered nicks and scratches. The grips rate in about Good condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One magazine

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: 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 8/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 15% of its original finish. The balance of the finish shows thinning, patina, scattered oxidation, and handling wear. There is light pitting throughout, particularly on the slide and frame edges. The grip safety and mainspring housing show notable finish wear. The markings remain clear. The screw heads are serviceable but show use. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fair to 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: None

Our Assessment: This is a rare Colt 1911 Government Model manufactured in 1917 under contract for England, intended for delivery to Russia. During World War I, the Russian Empire sought large numbers of firearms to arm its forces. The British government facilitated the procurement of these pistols from Colt to support Russia’s war effort. These pistols were marked with standard Colt commercial markings and later received British proofs as part of the export process.

The Colt 1911 is one of the most successful and enduring handgun designs, having been in service for over a century. It was originally designed by John Moses Browning and adopted by the U.S. military in 1911, where it saw extensive use through both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and beyond. Even today, the 1911 remains a favorite among shooters for its accuracy, ergonomics, and powerful .45 ACP chambering.

English Contract Colt 1911 pistols intended for Russia are highly collectible due to their limited production and historical significance. This example, despite its wear, remains a fascinating piece of history, reflecting both the global scale of World War I and the international supply chains that armed the forces of the Allies. It would make an excellent addition to any collection of early 1911s or military contract handguns.  Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.