This is a fine example of an original, exceptionally early 1913 production Colt Government Model semi-automatic pistol with a desirable three digit serial number. This pistol still retains the various early production parts, with the high polish Colt commercial blue finish with the Colt nitre blue on the smaller parts. This example was manufactured in the second month of production in early to mid 1913. The right side of the slide is marked: "COLT AUTOMATIC/CALIBRE 45" in front of the ejection port. The left side of the slide has the two line factory markings of "PATENTED APR.20.1897/SEPT.9.1902. DEC.19.1905. FEB.14.1911" followed by "COLT'S PT.F.A.MFG.CO./HARTFORD.CT.U.S.A." . The circled Rampant Colt trademark is located on the left side behind the slide serrations. The right side of the frame is marked with "GOVERNMENT MODEL" in Roman letters (serifs), with the early three digit serial number on the left side. The Colt "VP" Verified Proof mark is stamped on the left upper side of the trigger guard bow with a "K" inspection mark on the lower left side of the trigger guard bow. The top of the frame around the disconnector hole it is stamped with a "4" and "S" Colt assembler's proof mark. It still has the early commercial parts such as the round top rear sight and a replacement front sight, early checkered thumb safety with thin thumb piece and the slide stop is the first pattern without the plunger groove, the short horned grip safety, wide hammer spur, and the flat main spring housing. It is fitted with a replacement polished barrel that is stamped on the left side, "COLT 45 AUTO", with a capital letter "S" on the underside in front of the lug with no other marks or proofs. It is fitted with the early diamond checkered walnut grips. It is complete with a replacement two-tone magazine with a lanyard loop on the base plate.

Fine with 60% of the original high polish blue finish overall with wear on the edges and high spots with actual blue loss on the front grip strap with thinning on the main spring housing, and front underside of the frame and recoil spring housing area. The grips are also in fine condition with nice distinct checkering overall with light wear across the tops of the checkering mixed with some minor handling marks. The markings are clear and sharp. A very nice and very early Colt Government Model with original blued finish showing honest original use.