Manufactured in 1934, this is an example of a pre-war commercial Colt Government Model semi-automatic pistol. This pistol is documented as being carried by Texas Ranger E.J. "Jay" Banks early in his career. In the included copy of the Texas Department of Public Safety letter which is signed by Banks, he states that this pistol, along with another Colt Government Model in this auction, were carried on duty by him early in his career. He states that, at the time, his captain "Lone Wolf" Gonzaullas favored the Colt .45 auto, and that rangers were required to carry them. He also states that not all of the rangers agreed with that sentiment. The left side of the matching number slide has the two-line address/patent dates and the right side has the caliber marking followed by a Rampant Colt. The left of the trigger guard is marked "W/VP", and the right is marked "60". The right side of the frame has the Government Model marking over the serial number. The blued barrel has a polished chamber hood and is marked "45 AUTO". It has the "improved model" features including the short checkered trigger, wide checkered hammer, dished frame sides, and arched checkered mainspring housing with a lanyard loop. It is fitted with a pair of period replacement stag grips and a full blue magazine with pinned base.

Very fine, retains 80% of the original blue finish with some light holster wear showing a grey patina and a few scattered patches of light surface pitting/oxidation, concentrated mainly on the right. The period replacement grips are very fine with a few scattered light handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A chance to enhance your collection with a piece of Texas Ranger history!