Early Colt 1911's | First Dozen Ever Made | Surprise Find!

Published on December 1, 2020
Duration: 22:12

This guide details how to identify early Colt 1911 pistols, focusing on unique features of the first dozen manufactured. It covers slide markings, grip checkering, internal numbering, finish types, and the significant discovery of owner inscriptions. The information is presented with the authority of a firearms expert, emphasizing historical context and collectible value.

Quick Summary

Early Colt 1911 pistols, particularly the first dozen manufactured, are distinguished by specific features like a circled Colt logo (1911-1912), unique slide markings ('Model of 1911 U.S. Army' without inspector initials on early runs), and 15 rows of grip checkering. These rare examples, like serial number 11, can be valued between $100,000-$200,000+ and represent the culmination of US Army trials.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Early Colt 1911s
  2. 01:25US Army Trials and Competition
  3. 01:51Serial Number 11 Deep Dive
  4. 05:28Tracking the First Six Serial Numbers
  5. 09:05The 'General's' Pistols (Serials 7-9)
  6. 11:22Technical Features and Markings
  7. 14:38The Surprise Find: Fred S. Boden

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the first dozen Colt 1911 pistols historically significant?

The first dozen Colt 1911s are significant as they represent the earliest production examples of an iconic firearm. They showcase unique early markings, finishes, and construction details, and their lineage traces back to John Browning's design evolution and crucial US Army trials.

How can one identify an early Colt 1911 from the first production batch?

Identification involves checking for specific features like a circled Colt logo (1911-1912), 'Model of 1911 U.S. Army' slide markings without inspector initials on very early units, 15 rows of grip checkering, and specific internal serial number markings like '0011' for serial #11.

What was the outcome of the US Army trials involving the Colt 1911?

The Colt 1911 successfully competed against rivals like the Luger and Savage 1907 in US Army trials. It was ultimately selected due to its superior durability demonstrated during extensive endurance testing and its simpler, more robust design.

What is the estimated value of these early Colt 1911 pistols?

Due to their extreme rarity and historical importance, the first dozen Colt 1911 pistols can command very high prices. For example, serial number 9 is estimated to be worth between $100,000 and $200,000+, with other examples potentially reaching similar or higher valuations.

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