Lot 1438: WWI U.S. Marine Corps Contract Colt Model 1911 Pistol

Manufactured in 1917, this pistol was part of a 400 gun shipment on 11 October 1917 to the United States Marine Corps (p. 384 "Colt .45 Service Pistols" Models of 1911 and 1911A1" by Clawson). During the course of World War I, Colt shipped a total of approximately 9,950 Model 1911 pistols to the Marine Corps and at least 25 Government Models, making these pistols incredibly scarce in comparison to their Army shipped counterparts. Unlike the Navy contract Model 1911 pistols, which have a special slide marking, those that were shipped to the Marine Corps had the standard Army nomenclature, as is present on this example. The left side of the slide is marked with the two-line, two-block address and patent markings with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations and "MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY" on the right. The frame is marked with the serial number on the right and the property marking and circled "GHS" inspection mark on the left. The full blue barrel is marked on the chamber hood with "P" and "H". Fitted with blade and notch sights, checkered slide stop, thumb safety, and wide hammer, short grip safety, smooth flat mainspring housing with lanyard loop, a pair of diamond pattern checkered grips, and a correct, unmarked, two-tone magazine.

Excellent plus, as issued, 99% plus bright original military pattern brush blue finish with only the slightest handling marks and crisp markings. The grips are also excellent plus with only the slightest handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This is undoubtedly the finest U.S. Marine Corps shipped Colt Model 1911 pistol we have ever had the pleasure of offering at auction!