3505

WWI U.S. Colt Model 1911 'Black Army' Semi-Automatic Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
WWI U.S. Colt Model 1911 'Black Army' Semi-Automatic Pistol
This is an example of late WWI Model 1911 pistol as manufactured by Colt in 1918. The pistol is one of the often called "Black Army" pistols because of the coarse wartime finish that appears almost black. These pistol were found starting at about serial number 375000 and ran until the end of production of the 1911. The left side of the slide has the two-line, two-block markings of: "PATENTED APR.20, 1897. SEPT. 9, 1902 / DEC.19, 1905. FEB.14, 1911. AUG.19, 1913" followed by "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A." in the second block, with the Rampant Colt logo in the middle of the markings. The right side has the single line marking of "MODEL OF 1911.U.S. ARMY". The right side of the frame is marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" over the serial number and the "eagle head / S17" proof above the magazine release on the left side of the frame. It has a correct blue Colt WWI barrel that is marked on top of the chamber area with the small "H" and "P" (with common leg) proof. The frame has the late WWI checkered slide stop, thumb safety and wide spur hammer, flat main spring housing with a two tone magazine marked with the letter "C" on top of the toe and lanyard ring heel of the frame. Fitted with checkered walnut grips with diamond pattern around the screws.
BBL: 5 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 ACP
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 562918
Condition: Arsenal Refurbished. The pistol has a dark mottled patina with scattered strong arsenal dip blue finish, mainly in protected area. The small components retain 99% blue finish, (including the grip safety). There is some minor pitting on the left front and on the right side behind the ejector port on the slide, and on the front and back straps. With the exception of a couple of minor chips on the lower right panel, the grips are very fine with a few minor dings and crisp checkering. The markings remain clear and crisp (all highlighted in white). Mechanically excellent.