According to the included factory letter this highly attractive Colt Government model was manufactured in May of 1914, early in production of the commercial Government Model. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration, grips not listed, as well as shipment on 24 July 1914 to Schoverling, Daly and Gales in New York in a six gun shipment, just four days prior to the outbreak of World War I. This pistol represented the cutting edge of firearm technology and was highly sought after by military personnel and civilians alike. This particular example exhibits the early production lustrous high polish blue finish. The slide on this pistol bears the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side of the slide with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right of the slide has the caliber markings. "VP" and "R" are on the trigger guard, and "GOVERNMENT MODEL" is on the right side of the frame with the early four-digit serial number below it. The barrel is blued with a polished chamber and is marked "J" on the side of the lug. The slide release, thumb safety, and wide hammer are checkered and the smooth, flat mainspring housing has a lanyard loop at the bottom. It is fitted with a blade front and early production, rounded top notch rear sight, as well as a pair of diamond pattern checkered walnut grips. The two-toned magazine has a pinned base with a lanyard loop.

Excellent, retains 98% of the original, bright, high polish blue finish with some very light edge wear, a few scattered light handling marks, and the Rampant Colt stamped somewhat lightly (which we believe to be a factory error). The grips are also excellent with only the slightest handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. If you are searching for a benchmark, early production Colt Government Model pistol for your collection, search no further!