Manufactured in 1912, the first year of commercial production for the Government Model pistol. Blade front and round top notch rear sights, with the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side of the slide ahead of the circled Rampant Colt, and the caliber nomenclature on the reverse. The frame bears the "GOVERNMENT MODEL" legend on the right, with the "VP" and "K" inspection marks on the left side of the trigger guard. Fine niter blue finish is present on the wide checkered hammer, checkered slide catch and thumb safety, magazine catch and the long, smooth trigger. Both the slide and the frame are marked with a "crown/V" stamp on the left rear (the former just beneath the Rampant Colt, the latter just below the thumb safety), indicating inspection and approval at the London Proof House. While not documented, these markings are traditionally found on Colts sold commercially in England, which are often associated with private purchase sidearms for military officers with disposable cash and a taste for cutting edge firepower, as well as later direct purchases by the British military. Fitted with a pair of replacement checkered grips, a two-tone pinned-base replacement magazine with a lanyard loop, and a later production replacement barrel marked with a small "P" ahead of the lug. Import marking on right side of the grip frame under the grip.

Fine, with 50% of the original high polish blue finish, which remains strongest on the protected areas of the frame and the underside of the slide. Areas of mixed brown and gray patina are present on the left side of slide, with scattered pitting, handling/takedown wear, and wear along the edges. 40% original nitre blue remains on the small parts. The grips are good, with some chipping and dings. Mechanically excellent.