Manufactured in 1937, the "Transitional 1911" marked the resumption of military contract pistol production after a 13 year lapse, and introduced the features (though not the nomenclature) that define the 1911A1 Pistol. This particular example was shipped on March 18th, 1937 to Springfield Armory; while not explicitly marked, over two thirds of 1937 production was earmarked for the United States Navy. Part of the inventory at the time of America's entry into World War II, many of the Transitional 1911s saw hard use in the field, and can be difficult to find in any condition. Blade front and flat top rear sights, with the two-line, two-block address and patent dates on the left side of the slide, divided by the Rampant Colt, with a matching serial number beneath the side plate and "MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY" on the right. The frame is marked "P/VP" and "60" on the trigger guard, with "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" on the right side of the frame. Fitted with a short milled trigger, wide knurled hammer, long grip safety, checkered slide catch, thumb safety and mainspring housing, fully checkered grips, a later production replacement stamped and welded full blue magazine marked "G" on the toe, and a "COLT 45 AUTO" barrel with a large "G" on the underside.

Exceptionally fine, with 95% of the original blue finish, showing some bright edge wear, brown patina on the grip strap, mild handling marks and light spotting. The grips are very fine with some light dings and stains. Mechanically excellent.