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

Published on December 1, 2020
Duration: 22:12

This video delves into the history and specifics of the first dozen Colt 1911 pistols. It details their development from earlier John Browning designs, their victory in US Army trials against the Luger and Savage, and the unique characteristics of early production models. The speaker highlights the provenance of specific early serial numbers, including a significant 'surprise find' on serial number 11.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1911 won US Army trials due to its simpler design and superior durability. Early models featured high-polish blue finishes, niter-blued small parts, and unique markings like a circled Colt logo. Serial numbers 7-9 were issued to generals, with #9 now valued up to $200,000.

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 made the Colt 1911 win the US Army trials?

The Colt 1911 won the US Army trials primarily due to its simpler design and superior durability demonstrated during rigorous endurance testing. It outperformed competitors like the Luger and Savage 1907 in the .45 caliber trials.

What are some unique features of the very first Colt 1911 pistols?

Early Colt 1911s, like serial number 11, featured a high-polish blue finish with niter-blued small parts. They also had distinctive markings such as 15 rows of checkering between grip diamonds and a circled Colt logo, used only in 1911-1912.

What was the significance of serial numbers 7, 8, and 9 on the early Colt 1911s?

Serial numbers 7, 8, and 9 were issued to high-ranking officials: General Crozier, General Wood, and Secretary of War Dickinson. General Crozier purchased serial number 7 for $15, and serial number 9 is now valued significantly higher at auction.

What surprising discovery was made on Colt 1911 serial number 11?

Beneath the grips of Colt 1911 serial number 11, the name 'F.S. Boden' and 'Bakersfield' were found carved into the frame. This identified the original owner as Fred Scott Boden, a master mechanic and former mayor of Bakersfield, California.

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