July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/13/2022
Colt Government Model 1911A1 semi automatic pistol with provenance. The pistol was ordered by Henry C. Poulter on August 13, 1937 which is evidenced by a paper receipt that accompanies this pistol. According to records, Poulter enlisted in 1933 and served in the Navy through World War II. At the time the gun was ordered in 1937, Poulter was a stationed on the USS Reina Mercedes, a ship with an interesting history in both the Spanish and United States Navy. During the Spanish–American War, the Reina Mercedes served as a significant defensive element as part of the Spanish defenses against the American blockade of Santiago harbor. After the Spanish fleet was destroyed in the Naval battle of Santiago, the Spanish Navy scuttled the Reina Mercedes and made her into a blockship as an obstacle at the entrance of the harbor at Santiago de Cuba. The United States captured the Reina Mercedes when the Spanish defenses at Santiago de Cuba surrendered. The ship had been severally damaged during her time with the Spanish navy. The damages included at least three 13" shells from the USS Massachusetts and two 12" hits from the USS Texas when being sunk as a blockship, The ship also incurred significant damage from earlier bombardments. Nevertheless, the United States decided to salvage the ship and the Reina Mercedes became a part of the US Navy. She served as the station ship at Annapolis, Maryland, quarters for enlisted personnel assigned to the Naval Academy, as the headquarters for the Naval Academy's sailing activities, and lookout and harbor control center throughout her career as a US Navy vessel until being sold for scrap in 1957. The gun was made in 1925, most likely sitting in inventory for some time. Standard markings on the right side of the slide, with a 2 line company address/patent dates on the left side of the slide. "VP" proof on the left side of the trigger guard. "WOHG" marked on the right side of the frame, below the serial number. Serial number stamped on the back of the slide, under the firing pin retaining stop. Standard blade front sight with u-notch rear. Factory blued finish on the metal components. Added rubber buffer on the spring guide. Checkered wood grips. Includes correct two tone blued steel magazine. CONDITION: Metal retains 70% of tis original finish with general wear and some brown patina forming on the frame and slide. Grips are excellent. Bore is shiny with strong rifling. Mechanically fine. Magazine has light wear. JLD/JWA
Paperwork
Purchase Reciept