Manufactured in late 1912 or early 1913, the first or second year of production for the commercial Government Model. This pistol represented the cutting edge of firearm technology and was highly sought after by military personnel and civilians alike. This particular example is sometimes called a "Commercial Issue" as it was ordered for a military officer who apparently just couldn't wait to be issued a Model 1911 by the military. The included factory letter dated 1 September 1993 to noted book author Charles W. Clawson confirms this "Commercial Issue" pistols configuration with grips not listed, and a single gun shipment to W. A. Morrall for Lt. J. E. Murray on 12 March 1913. The slide bears the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side of the slide with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right of the slide has the caliber markings. "VP" and "K" are on the trigger guard, and "GOVERNMENT MODEL" is on the right side of the frame. The early four-digit serial number is located on the left of the frame, which was only standard on the first 2,250 Government Models. A rich, fiery niter blue finish is present on the checkered wide hammer, checkered thumb safety and slide catch, the magazine catch, and the long smooth trigger. The replacement barrel is a later production pattern marked "COLT 45 AUTO" on the lower left side with bright polished chamber hood. Fitted with a set of diamond pattern checkered grips and an unmarked two-tone magazine with lanyard loop on the bottom.

Fine, retains 60% plus bright original high polish blue finish and 50% original nitre blue finish on the small parts with the balance a smooth grey patina, primarily from holster type wear and in handling areas, and a few patches of light pitting. The grips are very good with some scattered minor dings and scratches and mostly crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.