Manufactured in 1913, the second year of production for the commercial Government Model. This particular example exhibits the early production lustrous high polish blue finish and nitre blue small parts and the "GOVERNMENT MODEL" marking on the front right of the frame which is rarely seen on pistols over serial number C5000. The slide on this pistol bears the two-line, two-block address and patent markings on the left side with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right of the slide has the caliber markings. "VP" and "R" are on the trigger guard. The early four-digit serial number is located on the right of the frame. The barrel has a polished chamber and "P" on the bottom in front of the lug. Fitted with fixed blade and notch sights, a set of diamond pattern checkered grips, and an unmarked two-tone magazine with lanyard ring base. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed) as well as shipment to Shelton Payne Arms Company in El Paso, Texas on 25 August 1918. Shelton Payne Arms was a known supplier of vast quantities of arms and ammunition to all sides involved in the Mexican Revolution, which was raging at the time this pistol was shipped.

Fine, retains 50% of the bright original high polish blue finish and 30% of the original nitre blue with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina, primarily on high spots from being holstered and the grip straps. Chamber hood on the barrel is polished bright. The grips are very good with some scattered minor dings and scratches, a sizable flat spot in the left panel, and otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.