June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
Between 1915 and 1918, Colt produced the Colt Model 1911 chambered for the .455 Eley cartridge for British World War I contracts. They are easily identifiable as the serial number has a "W" prefix and the slide is stamped ".455". Estimated total production through 1919 was approximately 13,300. This particular pistol was part of 500 purchased in 1917 from serial No. W70200 to W94100. For all intents and purposed they are identical to the same period 1911 as to features which include short checkered wide spur hammer, checkered slide stop and safety, flat mainspring housing with loop, long smooth trigger, flat top rear sight with radius corners. Left side of slide has the same stamping as a U.S. model with exception of a broad arrow stamp above the pony. Right side of slide is stamped "COLT AUTOMATIC CALIBRE 455". You will find numerous English acceptance stamps on frame as well as slide. Grips are typical diamond checkered walnut. The two tone tempered magazine with lanyard ring is stamped "CAL 455 ELEY". Gun has some high edge muzzle and a few storage marks but retains approximately 95% of the bright English re-applied blue finish. Has a fine bore but the barrel is a replacement that has no markings. Comes in a period English oak case that has been refitted and relined for a 1911 and a reproduction Daniel Frasier retailer label. Included in the case is an original British paper cartridge pack of seven ball cartridges dated January 30th, 1919 and stamped "NOT FOR REVOLVERS" and ".455 INCH"; a modern wood handled turn screw, a modern bushing wrench and an extra two tone tempered lanyard loop magazine with no stamps. From the G. Thomas Puett Collection.
Accessories
Ammo, Case, Extra Magazine & Accessories