Very desirable example of a U.S. Colt Model 1911A1 semi-automatic pistol that was produced in 1940. Less than 6,000 pistols were inspected and proofed by Major Charles S. Reed's who was the U.S. Ordnance inspector from August 1938-December 1940. It has an all blue finish with checkered brown plastic grips. The "CSR" inspection mark is present on the left side of the frame and on top by the disconnector hole with a "P" by the magazine release button and on top of the slide. The slide is marked with the standard Colt, two-line/two-block patent and address markings with a matching serial number (717/768) stamped above and below the firing pin hole. The right side of the frame is stamped "UNITED STATES PROPERTY/No.717768" with "M1911A1 U.S.ARMY" in front of the take down pin hole. It has standard fixed sights with a short milled trigger, wide checkered hammer, arched checkered mainspring housing, non-ribbed Colt grips, two-tone "A" marked magazine and a Colt barrel. These early pistols saw heavy use during WWII, and most were overhauled after the war.

Very fine, with 80% plus original blue finish showing a brown and gray patina on the grip straps and underside of the frame, light edge wear, scattered spotting and minor handling marks. The correct "CSR" stamp on the side of the frame appears double-struck, and the rear sight has turned brown. The grips are excellent with some minor dings. Mechanically excellent.