This is an excellent example of a early Pre-World War I Colt Model 1911 pistol that was shipped to the Commander Springfield Armory on Oct 29th, 1914 in a shipment of 996 pistols. The right side of the slide is marked "MODEL OF 1911 U.S. ARMY" in roman letters. The opposite side has a two-line block with 1897-1913 patent dates followed by a second block with Colt's Hartford address. The Rampant Colt logo with out a circle is located behind the slide serrations. A block "H" provisional inspection mark is stamped on the rear of the slide above the firing pin. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number "102554" with the left side marked in small roman letter, "United States Property". The encircled initials of inspector Major Walter G. Penfield (W.G.P.) are stamped above the magazine release. A block "H" provisional inspection mark is stamped above the disconnector hole and a roman "Y" Colt assembly mark is stamped to the right of the hole. The chamber area of the barrel has the separated horizontal "H and P" proofs, with a single "J" proofmark on the left side of the barrel lug with a single "5" on the underside in front of the lug. The pistol is fitted with the rarely seen long hammer with the sharp back edge used only on Colt 1911's from serial number 89801-108600. The rear sight is the second pattern with flat top approved in September 1913. The safety lock is the 1914 pattern with under cut, thick thumb piece. It is complete with a two-tone, blued magazine with a lanyard loop on the base. Accompanied by an authentication letter by noted 1911 expert Mr. Scott Gahimer.

Excellent with 95% plus of the original blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear with thinning on the grip straps. The walnut grips are in very fine condition with nice, sharp distinct checkering on both sides with only a couple handling marks. An exceptionally nice high condition 1914 manufactured Colt Model 1911 US Army contract pistol that just turned 100 years old!