Ryan Skiles Engraved WWI Colt U.S. 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, 1918 C&R

SOLD FOR: $3055.30

LSB#: 210506MM02

Make: Colt

Model: 1911

Serial Number: 429932

Year of Manufacture: 1918 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine

Markings: The right of the frame is marked “No 429932”, the left is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” on the dust cover. The left side of the slide is marked “PATENTED APR.20,1897. SEPT.9,1902 / DEC.19,1905. FEB.14,1911. AUG. 19, 1913”, “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” and behind the slide serrations with a rampant colt. The rear of the slide is marked “H” (vertical, no serifs) above the firing pin plate. The left side of the frame is marked behind the trigger with eagle’s head over “S5”. The top of the frame is marked “8” to the right and in front of the feed ramp, “H” in front of the disconnector, and “G” behind. The left link-lug is marked “S” and “P”. The pistol has extensive foliate scroll relief engraving with punch-dot fills in the negative spaces, cleverly preserving most of the original markings. The bottom of the magazine well is signed “R.A. SKILES 2011”.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “U”-notched rear sight dovetailed into the slide and a short rounded blade front sight fixed to the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth faux-pearl panels with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished at the time of engraving.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is some scattered light erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its current metal finish. The finish is generally strong throughout with most of the balance in minor operational wear. There is light erosion under the finish in the un-engraved areas, most notable under the grip panels. The torx screw heads have strong sockets. The markings are generally clear, the eagle’s head inspection mark is shallow. Overall, this pistol is in about Fine condition as customized.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has both a manual and grip safety and the trigger pull is crisp. The slide has nominal play to the frame. 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 single 7-round magazine, a WWII Pacific Theater commemorative display case, a key for the case and a Colt patch. The magazine has light operational wear, some scattered minor surface oxidation, intact feed lips and a strong spring, in about Very Good condition. The display case has no notable wear or damage, in Excellent condition as not original to the gun.

Our Assessment: The 1911 and 1911-A1 pistols served the military of the United States from 1911 to 1985, through two World Wars and the Korean and Vietnam wars. They gained a reputation as a reliable handgun with plenty of stopping power, and are held in high regard by those who have used them. They have also served as the canvas for some amazing engraving. This is an example of a WWI vintage 1911 which has had extensive engraving skillfully applied by Ryan Skiles. The result is a beautiful piece of art in the form of a restored classic American pistol. This beautiful piece will make a fine addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!