Russian World War 1 Contract Colt 1911

Published on November 10, 2020
Duration: 5:58

This entry details the rare Russian Contract Colt 1911, a World War I-era pistol procured by Russia through J.P. Morgan. It covers identification markers, serial number ranges, unique Cyrillic engravings on later models, and the historical significance of these firearms, noting their extensive service in various conflicts and their rarity in the US today. The information is presented with the authority of an expert firearms historian.

Quick Summary

The Russian Contract Colt 1911, procured during WWI, falls within serial numbers C21,000-C89,000. Later models (above C50,000) feature Cyrillic engravings. These pistols saw extensive service in multiple conflicts, making them rare collector's items today, with original magazines being two-tone and featuring a lanyard ring.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Russian Contract Colt 1911
  2. 01:37Identification and Serial Numbers
  3. 03:16Cyrillic Markings and Later Contracts
  4. 03:59Physical Features and Magazines
  5. 04:27Historical Context and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the serial number range for Russian Contract Colt 1911 pistols?

Russian contract Colt 1911 pistols typically fall within the serial number range of C21,000 to C89,000. However, Colt did not use a dedicated range, so pistols in this range are not exclusively Russian contracts. Authentication often requires a Colt historical letter.

What are the key identification features of a Russian Contract Colt 1911?

Key features include the serial number range (C21,000-C89,000), standard commercial 'Government Model' markings, and on later contracts (above C50,000), a Cyrillic engraving translating to 'English Order' or 'English Contract'. Original magazines are two-tone with a lanyard ring.

How many Colt 1911 pistols did Russia purchase during WWI?

Russia purchased approximately 51,000 Colt 1911 pistols through J.P. Morgan as a purchasing agent between February 1916 and January 1917, during the height of World War I, due to a desperate need for arms.

Why are Russian Contract Colt 1911s considered rare today?

Despite 51,000 being produced, these pistols are rare in the US due to their extensive service history in WWI, the Russian Revolution, and the Civil War. Many were lost or destroyed, and very few made it back to the United States in collectible condition.

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