Scarce “Pre-National Match” Government Model

Excellent condition match barrel Government Model. Pistol is one of an estimated 150 “pre-National Match” Colt Government Models, furnished with a match barrel, prior to the introduction of the National Match in 1932. Pistols with match barrels are recorded in Colt’s factory ledgers as early as 1922.

Pistol retains a high percentage of its original finish, with notable wear at the muzzle & scattered, small areas of finish loss in several other areas of the pistol. Stocks remain in excellent condition. Match barrel is marked with encircled MB on the left side of the lug. All original parts remain in excellent condition with no notable damage or significant wear, and pistol is excellent mechanically.

Factory letter confirms all pistol specifications, and indicates shipment to an E.A. Iveson, of whom this writer has not been able to locate any specific information on.

Overall, this is an excellent example of a scarce, early match barrel Government Model, one that lead directly to the eventual development of the iconic Colt National Match.