WWI Colt Model 1911 .45 ACP Semi-Automatic Pistol C&R MFD 1918
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
LSB# 241207AA237
Make: Colt
Model: 1911
Serial Number: 371023
Year of Manufacture: 1918 (C&R Eligible)
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: 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.” with the rampant Colt logo behind the patents and the address. 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” and bears various inspector’s marks. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number “No 371023”. The trigger guard has additional proof marks. The top of the frame is also marked with military acceptance markings. The magazine baseplate bears a two-tone finish typical of WWI-era production.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a wide rounded blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a wide square notch dovetailed into the slide. Neither sight appears original.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut double-diamond panels. They show moderate wear with handling marks, some flattening of the checkering, and small nicks. There is some darker patina developing in the checkering pattern. The grips rate in about good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One period-correct, two-tone 7-round magazine in good condition with expected wear from use and age.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
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 60% of its metal refinish. The balance of the finish shows general thinning, edge wear, and handling marks throughout. There is some scattered freckling and patina on the slide and frame. The grip safety and mainspring housing show moderate finish loss. The screw heads are lightly tooled but serviceable. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp and legible. Overall, this pistol rates in about good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide-to-frame fit is tight, and the controls operate smoothly. The trigger has a crisp break. 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 comes in a hard plastic case.
Our Assessment: This is a Colt Model 1911 manufactured in 1918 as part of the U.S. military contract for World War I. As an early-production military sidearm, it bears all the classic features of the original John Browning design, including the small sights, double-diamond walnut grips, and a two-tone magazine.
With original military markings intact, including “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” and “MODEL OF 1911 U.S. ARMY,” this pistol represents an excellent collectible for those interested in WWI-era firearms. The finish has been refinished at some point, but the pistol remains mechanically sound with a bright bore and strong rifling, making it an attractive piece for both collectors and shooters.
Whether you’re a military firearms historian, a Colt enthusiast, or a collector of C&R handguns, this 1911 is an outstanding example of America’s most iconic sidearm. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.
