USMC Marine Corps Colt Model 1911 .45 ACP 5” Semi-Automatic Pistol 1917 C&R
SOLD FOR: $4,128.00
LSB#: WY250310TP035
Make: Colt
Model: 1911 U.S. Army
Serial Number: 216703
Year of Manufacture: 1917 (C&R Eligible)
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 Colt’s patent dates: “PATENTED APR.20.1897. SEPT.9.1902. / DEC.19.1905. FEB.14.1911. AUG.19.1913.” It is also marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the slide is marked “MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY.” The left side of the frame is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY.” The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number “No. 216703.” The rear of the slide is marked with the Colt rampant horse logo.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a U-notch sight dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut with a double-diamond pattern. The grips show wear consistent with service use, with handling marks, pressure dents, and some wear to the checkering. The stocks rate in about good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One single-stack .45 ACP magazine in good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright, the rifling is well defined. There is moderate visible erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 25% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows heavy operational and handling wear, with thinning, oxidation, and scattered surface pitting. The edges show finish loss, and there are areas of patina throughout. The screw heads are lightly tooled with serviceable slots. The markings are legible. Overall, this pistol rates in about 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: One magazine.
Our Assessment: This Colt Model 1911 was produced in 1917 for the U.S. military during World War I. The Model 1911, designed by John Browning, became the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. armed forces and remained in service for decades, with a lasting legacy that continues today.
This particular example exhibits honest wear from use, with a significant amount of its original bluing worn away, but its markings remain legible, and the bore is in exceptional condition. The frame’s “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” marking confirms its military provenance, and the correct wartime Colt rampant horse logo further supports its authenticity.
For collectors of military firearms, this is a highly desirable piece of history. Whether you are a fan of World War I-era weapons, a Colt enthusiast, or simply appreciate the heritage of the 1911 platform, this pistol would make a valuable addition to any collection. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.
