Make: Colt

Model: Model 1911 U.S. Army

Serial Number: 19306

Year of Manufacture: 1913

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “PATENTED APR. 20. 1897 / SEPT. 9. 1902. DEC. 19. 1905. FEB. 14. 1911.” and “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the slide is marked “MODEL OF 1911 U.S. ARMY.” The left side of the frame is marked with the serial number “No 19306.” The right side of the frame is marked “UNITED STATES PROPERTY.”

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a U-notch dovetailed into the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut panels. The grips show general wear, handling marks, and softened checkering. There are no cracks or major losses. The stocks rate in about Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 7-round magazine in Fair condition with finish wear.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7.5/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 40% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows moderate finish loss, thinning, and scattered areas of oxidation and patina. The areas of exposed metal have developed a gray patina. There is freckled surface corrosion visible on the slide and frame. The screw heads are serviceable with mild tooling. The markings are legible. Overall, this pistol rates in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one magazine and a plastic framed Colt Archives letter.

Our Assessment: This is an early-production Colt Model 1911, manufactured in 1913 and issued to the U.S. Army. The Model 1911, designed by John Browning, became the standard-issue sidearm of the U.S. military and remains one of the most influential pistol designs in history.

This example, with its early military acceptance markings and classic blued finish, is a significant piece for collectors. The visible wear and patina speak to its long service life, yet the markings remain clear, and the mechanical functionality is intact. The bore remains exceptionally strong, making it a desirable example for historical appreciation or even range use with proper care.

For collectors of U.S. military sidearms, particularly early Colt 1911s, this is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a true piece of American history. These early-production examples continue to appreciate in value and serve as cornerstone pieces in any serious collection.