Tremendous, Early Two-Digit Serial Colt Government Model

Significant, early production Colt Government Model, serial number C60. Assembled on March 27, 1912, during the first month of production, this pistol retains a very high percentage of its original high polish blue finish with nitre blue accented small parts. Areas of fine scratches and mottling throughout, with some corrosion on the left side of the slide near the muzzle. Present is a light takedown mark, extending from the frame to the slide. All markings are clearly stamped, legible and in their correct locations, including the serial number on the left side of the frame, patent dates & encircled Rampant Colt on the left side of the slide, Government Model marking on the right side of the frame, and Colt Automatic Calibre 45 marking on the right side of the slide.

Significant components of the pistol are correct, including early keyhole magazine, early production unmarked blued barrel, slide, hammer, safety,  and slide stop.

Known potential replacement parts include the magazine catch lock screw of later production, as the earliest pistols known had a concave head without screwdriver slot. The mainspring housing pin is of slightly later period – approximately post serial C2000 – with concave on one end rather than both sides rounded. Several early pistols with single or two-digit serial numbers have been observed with these potentially updated parts.

Included Colt Archive letter shows manufacture date of March 27, 1912, with shipment to Watkins Cottrell Company of Richmond, Virginia, on September 6, 1912.

Overall, this pistol is an incredible example of early Colt Government Model production, worthy of the most advanced collections.

Any additional questions about this pistol can be directed to Paul Szymaszek, at [email protected], and I will be happy to answer any questions or supply any additional photos or information that may not be apparent in this listing.