Custom WWI Colt Model of 1911 — U.S. Army (.45 ACP, 1914)
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $1,275.00
This Colt Model of 1911 is a World War I–era U.S. Army pistol manufactured in 1914, representing one of the earliest production periods of John Browning’s landmark semi-automatic handgun. While heavily worn and modified over its long service life, this example retains solid mechanical function and an excellent bore, making it a historically significant shooter-grade representative of early U.S. military sidearms.
Identification
MMA#: 251110NW002
Make: Colt
Model: 1911
Serial Number: 70840
Year of Manufacture: 1914
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single-action semi-automatic pistol with detachable magazine
Barrel Length: 5 inches (aftermarket Colt barrel)
Sights / Optics
The front sight is a short rounded blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a round-top U-notch sight dovetailed into the slide, consistent with early 1911 sighting arrangements.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition
The pistol is fitted with aftermarket checkered brown plastic grips featuring internal reinforcement ribs and screw-ring reinforcements. The grips show scattered nicks, scratches, and scrapes, though the checkering remains mostly intact. Overall grip condition: Fine.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original frame and slide finish; aftermarket parts installed
This pistol retains approximately 5% of its original finish. The metal surfaces exhibit extensive finish loss, pitting, erosion, scratches, dings, oxidation, and discoloration from previous corrosion. The front of the slide appears to have been exposed to heat treatment at some point in its history. Despite heavy wear, markings remain clear and legible. Screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool-marked with strong slots. Overall condition: Fair.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Bright with sharp rifling and no erosion; rated 10/10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly on inspection. This pistol has not been test-fired. As with all previously owned firearms, professional inspection and routine cleaning are recommended prior to use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Included are two 7-round magazines and an assortment of spare parts.
Our Assessment
The Colt Model 1911 stands as one of the most influential handgun designs of the 20th century, serving the United States military from 1911 through 1985 across two World Wars and multiple later conflicts. Designed by John Moses Browning, the pistol introduced innovations that remain foundational to modern semi-automatic handguns, including the tilting barrel locked-breech system and the reciprocating slide.
This particular example was manufactured in 1914 during the early years of World War I production. While it has seen extensive use and modification over the past century, its strong mechanics and excellent bore distinguish it from many similarly worn examples. With only minimal original finish remaining, this pistol is best viewed as a historically significant shooter or restoration project rather than a high-condition collector piece. For those seeking an authentic early Colt 1911 with honest wear and a compelling service-life story, this example offers substantial historical appeal.
The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference
At Mt. McCoy Auctions we create durable archival records for every firearm we handle, including measured specifications, condition notes, and professional photography. Our process supports collectors and researchers while ensuring compliance, national exposure, and secure settlement for consignors.
