May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/10/2024
Circa 1939 per serial number. Modified with an undercut blade front sight and a King's adjustable rear sight with rib that runs to ejection port. Left side of slide with two-line one-block patent and address information on left side of slide, right with "NATIONAL MATCH // COLT // AUTOMATIC / CALIBRE .45" with a Rampant Colt. Trigger guard with "P" and Colt's VP proof on left side of web, right with "60". Right side of frame with Government Model designation and serial number. Barrel largely polished to an in-the-white appearance with bluing retianed in lockup lugs and ahead of chamber, with "COLT 45 AUTO MATCH" on lower left side of chamber, and what appears to be a heavily softened "MB" on left lug. Added "1A" under auto match designation. Recoil spring guide has an unusual paperclip assembly installed, probably to tighten fit. Small parts comprise checkered spurred hammer, thick tab safety, checkered slide release, checkered trigger with evidence that a trigger shoe was installed at one point, long A1 grip safety, arched knurled mainspring housing, and two-tone magazine with "COLT / 45 AUTO" on baseplate. Front strap has been stippled for added traction. Grips are ivory and carved with an Asian dragon motif. PROVENANCE: From the personal and advanced collection of Dr. Jim Watson of Scottsdale, Arizona. CONDITON: Good as customized, with the majority of the factory bluing retained, with silvering throughout to sharp edges, and evidence of fitting to rails and barrel bushing. Slot for Swartz safety, vacant. Superficial handling marks acquired from range use throughout. Proofs on trigger guard with appropriate distension from application of stamp. Grips are very good with no cracks or chips. Small parts are possibly replaced, as the thumb safety frame pin is slightly short. Mechanically fine, bore is very good, bright and shiny with strong rifling.