56. (5411) Colt Mfg. Model 1911 Military#371736 early manufacturer with commercial blue finish. The right side of the slide has “MODEL OF 1911 U. S. ARMY” in sharp, clear letters. The left side of the slide has the standard two line patent marks also in clear, sharp lettering. The left side of the frame has, “UNITED STATES PROPERTY” clearly rolled.

This appears to be an early model made somewhere between 1918 and 1921. It has not been arsenal refinished since all refinished pistols of this age were phosphate (Parkerizing) refinished by the government armorers.

Condition: The finish and overall condition are NRA very good to excellent or 90% to 95% with very slight wear marks to the bluing in the regular places. The barrel appears excellent as do all the small parts such as pins, safety, slide stop and screws. The magazine is the original style, but appears to have been refinished because the bluing is showing the old two part finish. The rear sight is the typical “U” notch and the double diamond, checkered Walnut grips show considerable handling and storage wear wear. The top of the slide has a small longitudinal wear line in the matte finish on top where it was drawn in and out of a holster. All internal parts are original and in mint condition. The flame inspectors mark behind the trigger on the left side is in clear, sharp condition. Blue Book value and current auction results show this pistol to be valued between $2,050 and $3,200…$2,100.00.