Scarce Egyptian Contract Government Model

Highly unusual & seldom seen Egyptian contract Colt Government model. This pistol retains some blue, but exhibits finish wear throughout. Minimal pitting and corrosion. Pistol is now fitted with a close time period USGI slide with similar wear, bearing serial number 745057, rather than its original commercial slide. Mechanically sound. Right front bow of triggerguard contains an Arabic stamp – this inscription is an abbreviation, but roughly translates to ‘Police” or belonging to police.

Of historical interest, subject pistol is believed to have been utilized by King Farouk of Egypt’s bodyguards, as they were typically outfitted with Colt .45 caliber pistols, carried in Audley-Folsom holsters. Attached is a reference document of unknown origin describing the issuance of various firearms to Egyptian forces. Subject pistol, according to included Colt Archive Letter, indicates it was part of a shipment of 115 Government Models to N. Maratos & Son in Cairo on August 10, 1938. This company is advertised in the attached 1918 publication “The Sphinx” as offering gunsmithing services.

This writer is aware of only one other surviving pistol from this shipment.

Farouk ruled Egypt from 1936 until 1952, when he was overthrown in the July 23 Revolution.

A historic pistol, which may have lived through the turbulent North African campaigns of World War II, where Egypt provided both material & troop support to the Allies.