Colt 1918 Model of 1911 U.S. Army .45 ACP, Bright Nickel Refinish, WWI Contract Pistol
This 1918-manufactured Colt Model of 1911 U.S. Army is a genuine World War I contract pistol that has been refinished in bright nickel, giving it a striking appearance distinct from its original brushed-blue finish. Retaining its pre-A1 long trigger, flat mainspring housing, and wide-spur hammer, it represents the classic wartime 1911 configuration while displaying period-correct slide markings and serial range. The aftermarket plating and replacement grips make it a unique collectible that still carries solid historical provenance.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Specific Condition Notes: The pistol has been aftermarket chrome plated; the finish shows moderate scratching, scuffing, isolated pitting, and surface blemishes.
Bore Condition: Fair – Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Fouling: Mild Fouling – Light buildup of fouling or dirt.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling – Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
What’s Included
- Colt Model of 1911 U.S. Army pistol
- 1x 7-round GI-pattern steel magazine
Serial number 4307XX places this pistol squarely within the late-war 1918 Colt military production often referred to as the “Black Army” run. Although originally finished in Colt’s wartime brushed-blue, it was later bright-nickel plated, creating a vivid contrast to standard issue examples.
The slide carries the full pre-1924 patent legend on the left side and the correct “MODEL OF 1911. U.S. ARMY” roll mark on the right, confirming its U.S. Army contract origin. Colt’s short wide-spur hammer, long solid trigger, and flat mainspring housing remain in place, preserving its classic WWI configuration despite later cosmetic changes.
Aftermarket black checkered synthetic grip panels replace the original walnut stocks, offering modern durability while maintaining a traditional profile. Fixed open sights—a low-profile blade front and drift-pinned U-notch rear—remain unaltered, keeping the sight picture period correct.
With its documented 1918 production date and U.S. Army provenance, this pistol is a strong candidate for a Colt factory archival letter. The combination of service-era heritage and later custom finish makes it an eye-catching piece for collectors who appreciate both history and individuality.