This is a very fine example of an original WWI U.S. Army contract Model 1911 pistol, as manufactured by the Colt firearms company in late 1918. This pistol was manufactured in the last block of serial numbers at the very end of WWI. Although this pistol is in the last block of serial numbers, it is in a unique subset of pistols that has the new later style block letter markings (vs. the earlier serifs letters) but still retains the earlier Colt military brushed blue finish and not the late "Black Army" finish. The left side of the slide has the standard Colt factory two-line, two-block markings with the Rampant Colt behind the slide serrations. The right side is marked "MODEL OF 1911 U.S. ARMY". The left side of the frame is marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" and has the circled "JMG" proof of LTC J.M. Gilbert above the magazine release, and the right side is stamped with the serial number of the pistol. The pistol still retains the correct original WWI parts such as the checkered Colt wide spur hammer, flat mainspring housing, checkered slide stop and thick type III thumb safety. It is fitted with a WWI Colt barrel that is marked over the chamber area with the separated "H" and "P" proofmarks with a single number "5" on the underside in front of the lug. With the original WWI Colt diamond pattern checkered walnut grips and complete with one two-tone magazine.

Very fine overall with 75% plus of the blue finish remaining with the balance a light spotty brown patina. The grips are very fine with nice distinct checkering on both sides, mixed with some minor handling marks. A very nice all original example of a WWI Colt M1911 U.S. Army contract pistol.