1185 BRITISH RAF CONTRACT COLT 1911 SEMI AUTO PISTOL.

Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 1,000.00 USD
Estimated at 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
PISTOL. Cal. 45 ACP (originally 455 Eley). S# W104231. Per "Colt .45 Government Models (Commercial Series)" by Charles W. Clawson, this pistol was originally purchased as part of Contract No. U.S. 1139-MM67, dated January 2, 1918; this pistol was delivered approx. between Sept. 10, 1918, and March 11, 1919. Left side of the frame and slide have Colt factory "crossed pennant" proofs. Left side of the frame has the "R.A.F" proof (the "A" double stamped), broad arrow, and "crown over G2 over A" G. W. R. Stedman, British Army Inspector of Small Arms, proof. Colt Government model commercial features, including a replacement 5" Colt commercial barrel marked "BNP .45 .900 / 7 TONS PER"; markings mandated by the Proof Act of 1955. Right side of the slides has an added Birmingham proof over a second "5" in the caliber marking. Two-piece double-diamond-checkered walnut grips. MAGS: 1 two-tone 7-rd. with lanyard loop marked "455 / ELEY". CONDITION: frame and slides have a fair original blue finish showing faded blue mixed with patina and marks. Front sight shows impact dents. Replacement extractor. Good grips show worn checkering near the butt. Good bore with light pitting. PROVENANCE: the collection of Curtis H. Halvorson. (23-5879/MD). CURIO. $2,000-3,000.