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  • Auction Catalog #83
  • Lot #1511
Lot #1510
Lot #1512

Lot 1511: World War I U.S. Contract Colt Model 1911 "Black Army" Pistol

Exceptional World War I U.S. Contract Colt Model 1911 "Black Army" Semi-Automatic Pistol

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 11, 2021

Lot 1511: World War I U.S. Contract Colt Model 1911 "Black Army" Pistol

Exceptional World War I U.S. Contract Colt Model 1911 "Black Army" Semi-Automatic Pistol

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 11, 2021

Estimated Price: $3,750 - $5,500
Price Realized:
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Exceptional World War I U.S. Contract Colt Model 1911 "Black Army" Semi-Automatic Pistol

Manufacturer: Colt
Model: 1911
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 45 ACP
Barrel: 5 inch round
Finish: blue
Grip: walnut
Stock:
Item Views: 2065
Item Interest: Active
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 390
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Bore Condition: Shiny - Very little wear
Description:

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 an 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 right rear of the slide is marked with a "circle"/"S" stamp behind the serrations. 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 "P/H" 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. Provenance: The Gus Cargile Collection

Rating Definition:

Exceptionally fine, retains 90% plus of the original deep "Black Army" blue finish with the balance having thinned to a blue-brown patina, primarily in a patch on the top left of the slide and the mainspring housing. The grips are excellent with a few scattered very light handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.



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