Special Order Colt Government Model National Match 1911 .45 ACP Pistol 1935

SOLD FOR: $11,166.00

LSB#: WY240925JT088

Make: Colt

Model: Government Model National Match. Special order sight listed on the Colt Archives factory letter as follows: “Special Features: Equipped with a 1/8” front sight.”

Serial#: C179207

Year of Manufacture: 1935 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber/Gauge: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The right side of the slide is marked ”NATIONAL MATCH COLT AUTOMATIC CALIBRE .45” and with a rampant Colt. The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” and has the patent dates. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in a triangle and “X. The right side of the trigger guard is marked “60”. All serialized parts are matching.

Barrel Length: 5”

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

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip:  The grips are two piece checkered wood. The rear strap is checkered. The grip has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined with faintly worn peaks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grip is in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The screwheads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit is snug. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol comes with 1 Magazine, factory papers, cleaning brush, factory box, and Colt letter.

Our Assessment: The Colt National Match was first listed in 1932, as “a hand honed velvet honed smooth target- match barrel- and patridge type sights.” These pistols were built between 1932-1940. Several batches are to have been purchased as competition pistols.  They were also purchased by the Military. The pistol is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen some light use.  Whether you’re looking for a great 1911-style target pistol or want to add a Government Model National Match to your collection, this is the choice for you. Please see our photos and good luck! -C.M.