Colt Government Model Series 70 .45 ACP — 1978 Ohio 175th Anniversary Commemorative, 1 of 250, Colt Custom Shop, 5-inch
This Colt Government Model Series 70 is a 1978 Ohio 175th Anniversary Commemorative from the Colt Custom Gun Shop, limited to 250 units. It features factory photo-engraving on the slide with Ohio-themed panels, a two-tone finish, and smooth rosewood grips with Colt gold medallions. The sale includes the walnut presentation case, factory letter confirming features, manual, and commemorative card.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape. There are some minor scratches and blemishes present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Walnut French-fitted presentation case with red interior
- Presentation case keys
- Original case
- Colt Industries factory letter (February 22, 1979)
- Ohio 175th Anniversary Special Edition '1 of 250' card
- Manual
- 1 Colt factory 7-round magazine ('COLT .45 AUTO.' marked floorplate)
Built by the Colt Custom Gun Shop, this commemorative Government Model marks Ohio’s 175th anniversary (1803–1978) and is identified as 1 of 250. The accompanying Colt factory letter dated February 22, 1979 confirms the commemorative theme, factory photo-engraving on the slide only, rosewood stocks with gold medallions, the walnut presentation case, and the limited production.
The slide carries factory photo-engraved artwork: the left side shows a ribbon reading '1803 OHIO 175th ANNIVERSARY 1978' with the state seal, while the right side depicts the Ohio State Capitol and the state flag. '1 of 250' appears within the scrollwork, with small engraved panels at the rear serrations. The slide has bright-polished flats with matte top surfaces, rear cocking serrations, and a standard GI-style ejection port with a straight lower edge and no scallop at the rear.
The frame is carbon steel with a matte silver-tone finish, pairing to create a two-tone presentation with the slide. Classic Series 70 features include a spur hammer, a short solid serrated trigger, and fixed GI-style sights with a staked front blade and square-notch rear. Safety features include a thumb safety and grip safety.
Chambered in .45 ACP with a 5-inch barrel and a 7+1 capacity, this full-size 1911 retains the Series ’70 era character and resides in the G70-suffix serial range. Smooth rosewood grips with Colt gold medallions complete the presentation, aligning with the commemorative’s factory-documented configuration.