Colt 1911 Serial Numbers U.s. Government -

These were made for the civilian market and typically have a "C" prefix or other alpha prefixes (like "70G" for later Series 70 models). WWI Era: The M1911 (1912–1919)

A genuine Colt 1911 with a U.S. Government serial number is a blue-chip collectible.

Distinguishing a true "U.S. Government" M1911 from a commercial "Government Model" is essential for valuation: colt 1911 serial numbers u.s. government

After WWI, production slowed. The military shifted focus to the M1911A1, which featured several upgrades. However, actual A1 production didn’t ramp up until WWII.

: Legitimate government-contract pistols were stamped with this mark, often right above the serial number. The "C" Prefix Trap : If your serial number starts with a " These were made for the civilian market and

On a military-issue Colt 1911, the serial number is typically located on the right side of the frame , just above the trigger. "UNITED STATES PROPERTY"

Unlike commercial models, U.S. Government 1911s followed strict serial number contracts. These numbers tell a story: Distinguishing a true "U

Have a specific serial number you’re researching? Leave the prefix and first four digits in the comments (or consult a professional appraiser) for a more precise identification.

The gap between 230,000 and 710,000 covers commercial production and slow military contracts. Pistols with serial numbers between 750,000 and 800,000 are often “Pre-War A1s” and command premium prices.

The Colt 1911 was initially produced for the U.S. military, which held a series of trials to find a new sidearm to replace the aging M1892 revolver. The Colt 1911, along with the Ithaca and Remington entries, was tested and ultimately adopted by the U.S. Army in 1911. The first contract for 3,000 Colt 1911s was awarded to Colt's Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, with a serial number range starting at 1 and going up to 3,000. These early military Colts were marked with a "U.S. Army" or "U.S. Property" stamp, along with the Ordnance Department's "crossed cannons" proof mark.