Manufactured in 1913, the second year of production of 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 exhibits the early production lustrous high polish blue finish and niter blue small parts and the "GOVERNMENT MODEL" marking on the front right of the frame which was only seen until approximately serial numbers C4500-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 "Q" are on the trigger guard. The early four-digit serial number is located on the right of the frame. The later production military replacement barrel is marked "P/H" on the chamber and "Y" on the bottom. Fitted with fixed blade and notch sights, a set of diamond pattern checkered grips, and an unmarked two-tone magazine. Provenance: The Dr. Robert Azar Collection