Manufactured in 1917 during World War I for commercial sale; in contrast to the virtually complete shutdown of civilian arms manufacture that occurred during World War II, Colt was able to continue commercial production alongside its military obligations, producing Government Models alongside the Model 1911. While serial number records show approximately 22000 Government Models produced in 1917, those numbers include Colt's foreign contracts, so significantly fewer were available for the American market. Fixed sights, with the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side of the slide with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations, and "COLT AUTOMATIC/CALIBRE 45" ahead of the ejection port. Marked "GOVERNMENT MODEL" over the serial number, with the "VP" Verified Proof and "2" inspection mark on the left side of the trigger guard. Fitted with a wide checkered hammer, long smooth trigger, short grip safety, smooth flat mainspring housing with lanyard ring, checkered grips and a 2-tone magazine.

Excellent with 97% plus of the original high polish blue finish and a few small bright or spotted patches on the right side of the slide near the muzzle, the start of a brown patina on the grip straps and a minimum of handling marks. The slide is a bit lighter in the shade of blue than the frame, but is totally original. The grips are excellent with a few dings and dark spots. Mechanically excellent. One of the finest World War I commercial Government Model pistols available on the market.