June 9-10, 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/10/2017
The Model 1917 was a U.S. military revolver introduced in 1918. It was chambered for the same cartridge as the 1911 semi-automatic and was operated by use of half-moon clips; cartridges were installed in the clips to allow firing and extraction. These were manufactured for the U.S. Government in 1918 and production continued through 1920. This particular example was manufactured in 1919, at about the time of the secession of the hostilities in Europe. It was a six shot, double action with blued finish, smooth two piece walnut grips and lanyard ring. The polishing was not as fine as the commercial models and the finish was a military flat blue rather than the high polish finish given to commercial guns. The bottom of the barrel is stamped "UNITED STATES PROPERTY". Left side of frame has the "J.M.G." inspector stamp (John Gilbert). Back of the cylinder has an "H" inspection stamp, as does crane. Left side of frame is stamped with pony. Smooth walnut grips were not inspector stamped. The butt is stamped "U.S. ARMY MODEL 1917" with a military No. 62120. The gun remains in nearly un-issued condition retaining at least 99% of the dull original military blue finish. Near mint bore and perfect action. Grips have a couple of small dents, but no chips and remain in near mint condition as well. It would be nearly impossible to find a higher condition, all original Colt Model 1917 for the collector who wants the very best.