This is an excellent example of a WWI U.S. Army contract Model 1911 pistol that was manufactured by the Colt firearms company in 1917. This pistol has the block style lettering and markings without any serifs with the Colt military brushed blue type finish. The slide has the standard Colt factory two-line, two-block markings with the Rampant Colt behind the slide serrations. The right side is marked "MODEL OF 1911 U.S. ARMY". The left side of the frame is marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" with the initials "JMG" above the magazine release for Major John M. Gilbert the U.S. Ordnance inspector. The right side is stamped with the serial number "242879". The pistol still retains the correct original World War I parts such as the checkered Colt wide spur hammer, flat mainspring housing, checkered slide stop and thick type III thumb safety. It is fitted with a WWI Colt barrel that is marked with the separated "H and P " over the chamber area with a number "5" stamped on the inspector proof on the underside of the barrel. This beautiful pistol still retains the original World War I Colt diamond pattern checkered walnut grips and is complete with one half-tone magazine.

Excellent with 98% plus of the original blue finish overall with only a hint of edge and high spot wear. The grips are also in the same excellent condition with nice sharp distinct checkering. Mechanically excellent.