This is an example of the desirable Colt "Transitional" Model 1911 Pistols manufactured and delivered to the Army in 1924. The "Transitional" Model pistols were also known as the Model of 1924, and are serial numbered between 700001 and 710000, having all the Model 1911A1 features although the right side of the slide is marked "MODEL OF 1911.U.S.ARMY". The transitional changes included: (1) modified main spring housing, (2) milled clearance on the sides of the receiver behind the trigger, (3) shortened hammer, (4) lengthened grip safety tang and (5) reduced trigger length. The diamonds around the screws on the grips were eliminated. Although the "Transitional" pistols were delivered to the Army, Springfield Research Service records show large numbers of these pistols were actually issued to the Navy. This particular example was shipped to Springfield Armory on January 23, 1924 in an order of 1,000 pistols and was the first block of pistols sent to the military. (Where it went from there is unknown). The left side of the frame directly above the magazine release is stamped with the early placement "WTG" (Walter T. Gorton) monogram in a circle utilized on only the first approximately 100 pistols. The opposite side is marked: "UNITED STATES PROPERTY / No 700836". The left side of the slide has the Colt 1897-1913 patent dates in a two-line block followed by the two-line Hartford address. The Rampant Colt motif is located between the patent dates and the address. The rear of the slide is marked with the "H" inspection mark above the firing pin stop. The top of the barrel chamber is marked with the "HP"and the upper right side of the trigger guard is marked with a "32". The grips are the full checkered walnut pattern introduced on the "Transitional" Model 1911 pistol. The sights are fixed low profile, the trigger, slide stop, thumb safety, hammer and main spring housing are checkered. The magazine is two tone with the letter "R" marked on top of the toe and there is a lanyard ring on the heel.

Professionally restored to near mint condition. There are a few scattered minor scratches and handling marks. The grips are excellent with some minor wear on the otherwise very crisp checkering. The markings are highlighted in white and remain clear and crisp. A very nice restoration of a scarce and desirable Colt Transitional Model 1911 pistol.