In July of 1918, in an effort to further speed up production, Colt changed the finishing process on the Model 1911 yet again. This involved the polishing process ending at the "rough" stage, with the blue finish being applied to this "rough" or brushed surface which led to a much darker, almost black, appearance. This example was manufactured circa September of 1918, and is a very fine example of a "Black Army", as they came to be known. The left side of the slide has the standard two-line, two-block patent dates and address with the Rampant Colt between, and "MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY" on the right. The frame is marked with the serial number on the right, with the U.S. property marking and eagle head inspection mark on the left. The full blue barrel is marked with the conjoined "HP" on the chamber. Fitted with blade and notch sights, checkered slide stop, thumb safety, magazine release, and wide hammer, long smooth trigger, short grip safety, flat smooth mainspring housing with lanyard loop, and an unmarked two-tone magazine.

Excellent, retains 97% original blue/black finish with some scattered very light edge wear, a few small patches of brown patina on the upper left of the slide, and a small patch of grey patina at the bottom rear of the mainspring housing, and crisp markings. The grips are also excellent with a few scattered light dings and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.