September 20th 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/19/2015
.45 ACP with a 5" barrel. Offered is arguably one of the finest Colt Model 1911 U.S. Navy semi-automatic pistols to surface. The gun appears to be in nearly unfired all original condition. There are a few of the usual minor storage marks but there is barely any perceivable muzzle wear. The front grip straps and trigger guard retains 99% of the brilliant high polish blue. Slide and frame, including the top, retains 98-99% brilliant blue. The trigger retains virtually all of the brilliant blue. Grip safety retains 98% brilliant blue. About the only perceptible thinness of the original finish is on the flat mainspring housing which has simply flaked to a light blue silver patina. We have completely disassembled this firearm and guarantee that every single part is correct for this Navy Model. Barrel has the proper perpendicular "PH" (sans serif) inspector marked with the "P" closest to the breach. Has the proper early type one round U-notch rear sight and type one front sight. All proper small checkered parts including a type one short wide-spur hammer. Sports near mint diamond checkered walnut grips. Has the original key hole lanyard loop magazine. Left side of frame has "United States Property" with the "W.G.P." Inspector's stamp. (Walter G. Pennfield 1911-1914). Left side of slide has the correct patent dates with the Colt pony at rear of slide without the circle. Right side of slide is stamped "Model of 1911 U.S. Navy". Bore is mint. Action is perfect. Does have a light drag line. This pistol was manufactured in 1913 and falls in the middle of the Navy serial range for that year. Comes with a Colt research letter confirming all of the above. All edges are as sharp as new. All legends are perfect. As every collector of Model 1911s is well aware, the Navy issue pistols are amongst the most desirable, and as to condition, it would be virtually impossible to find one in such near new condition. These were generally shipped in wooden crates and as such, were subject to minor storage abrasions when unpacked at the Brooklyn Naval Yard in 1913, this is one such pistol. There is not much more we can possibly say about this incredible offering other than, if you've been waiting for the best possible condition of a 1911 Navy or just have been looking to upgrade, this pistol is the one.Colt Factory letter confirms shipment to Brooklyn Naval Yard 1913.