This is a unique example of a replacement Colt commercial government model pistol that has been manufactured by the Colt factory to replace a previously produced pistol. The serial number on the frame would suggest that the pistol was originally produced in late 1917 or early 1918 based on the serial number range, however the pistol itself is the later production Model 1911A1 style pistol with the half-moon cutouts added on both sides of the frame behind the trigger. The slide is marked on the left side with the standard, two-line, one block patent and address markings, while the right side is marked in two blocks "COLT/AUTOMATIC CALIBRE 45" with the Colt Rampant Horse logo directly behind that. In addition the pistol has been fitted with some of the later configuration parts such as the checkered "arched" mainspring housing, wide spur hammer with borderless checkering, checkered slide stop and thumb safety. As noted this pistol is complete with an original Colt Maroon shipping box. It has the original checkered grips and complete with a nickel plated magazine marked on the base, "COLT/45 AUTO". An unusual type early frame with the later configuration change, which may certainly indicated that the new owner needs to check with a factory letter.

Very fine as partially refurbished (see below) with 97% of the blued finish with blue missing on the sides of the rear sight and a small spot of bright metal directly below the serial number that has been black painted over. The box is also in very good plus condition with unfaded maroon color overall with tight corners on the bottom of the box with the same nice color in the lid, which unfortunately has had the back edge (the piece attached to the paper hinge) torn off, but still retained by the paper hinge. The Colt factory markings inside are clear and sharp with only minor paper tears and some staining. A very interesting and unique example of a Colt Government Model pistol.