In July of 1918, in an effort to further speed up production, Colt changed the finishing process on the Model 1911 yet again. This involved the polishing process ending at the "rough" stage, with the blue finish being applied to this "rough" or brushed surface which led to a much darker, almost black, appearance. This example was manufactured in late 1918, and is an example of a "Black Army", as they came to be known. According to p. 520-521 of "U.S. Military Automatic Pistols: 1894-1920" by Meadows, this pistol would have been part of one of many shipments in August-September of 1918. The left side of the slide has the standard two-line, two-block patent dates and address with the Rampant Colt between, and "MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY" on the right. The frame is marked with the serial number on the right, with the U.S. property marking and eagle head inspection mark on the left. The blued barrel is marked "5" on the bottom in front of the lug. Fitted with blade and notch sights, checkered slide stop, thumb safety, magazine release, and wide hammer, long smooth trigger, short grip safety, flat smooth mainspring housing with lanyard loop, and an unmarked two-tone magazine.

Extremely fine, retains 98% plus of the original "black army" finish on the frame with some extremely light edge were and a few very light handling marks. The replacement slide is of a different hue, and is possibly arsenal refurbished. The grips are also excellent with a minor ding on the left panel, otherwise only the slightest handling marks, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.