Colt 1911 Military value?

Daniel Howe · #1 05-02-2019, 06:53 AM

My Father has asked me what the value is of a friends Colt 1911 Military. He said the sn is 435324 which would date it 1918 and the finish is 60%, functions fine. They need to sell it to settle an estate, I told him I would buy it but I need to know what is a fair value for it so I can make an offer. Sorry I can't get a picture to post.

LoboGunLeather · #2 05-02-2019, 07:17 AM

I own over two dozen US military M1911 and M1911A-1 pistols dating from 1914 to 1945, and I have been collecting these for over 30 years.

Without examining the pistol I would be reluctant to offer even a guess at fair market value. Too many possible variables (arsenal rebuilds, parts mismatched, damage by prior owners, condition issues). Model 1911 pistols were made by Colt, Springfield Armory, Remington-UMC, and North American Arms. Those WW1-era pistols remained in military inventories until at least 1960, during which time most were re-arsenaled at least once, and even those that weren't are frequently found with mismatching parts due to unit maintenance procedures (when all parts are interchangeable there can be a tendency to pay little attention to keeping each pistol assembled with all original parts).

The chances of the pistol in question remaining in all original condition are less than 50/50, and any mis-matching of parts, parts replacement, or modification of any part will have a huge impact on collector value (at least 40% to 50% less, perhaps even less).

That said, even a correct re-arsenaled Model 1911 in 60% condition would probably bring buyers at the $1500-$1800 range. One with all original parts and finish, with an honest 60% condition would probably draw serious attention at $3000-plus. Please note that I have not stated that the pistol in question fits into either of these categories, something that cannot be determined without a full disassembly and close examination of each part.

One thing to keep in mind is that the value of these old Colts continues to grow by leaps and bounds. 35 years ago I was purchasing original 1911's in the $250 price range and 1911A-1's at or under the $200 price point, and having no difficulty finding them (other than a Singer or other super-rare variant). About 25 years ago my younger son was serving in the US Coast Guard when his vessel transitioned to the M9 pistols and crew members were allowed to purchase the M1911A-1's for $125 each (these were all WW2 production Colts, Rem-Rands, Ithacas in good serviceable and original condition, each now worth $1600 to $2200 or so). The point here is that even if today's buyer pays a little higher price than might be supported by today's market the chances are that it will prove to be a sound investment in future years.

cmansguns · #3 05-02-2019, 08:17 AM

Welcome to the Forum from Virginia.

I agree 100% with Lobo above. True value can only be ascertained by up close inspection with complete teardown because several components are actually serial numbered in places not viewable with just normal field stripping. For example with early Colts (like your fathers friend's) the last 4 digits of the serial number will be stamped onto the firing pin stop plate, but to view this component requires disassembly from the slide itself. Also all of these guns are ex-military and will have various government inspector initials, and proof marks, both government and Colt present on several components. Both the condition (sharpness, etc.) and appearance of these marks has a very real affect on value as the components can (and will be found) mixed, refinished, worn, replaced....or heaven forbid.....Loctited in place (grip screw bushings most common...instead of staked. Grip screws can show signs of being buggered up by the use of normal screwdrivers instead of hollow ground, etc.

None of the above is truly "bad" because GI's and unit armorers did what they had to do to keep firearms in service and in the field......but these things are of super real importance to modern day collectors (or even accumulators of MilSurp arms and history).

Another example for your Colt.....the finish can be different shades of bluing, but I really doubt Parkerizing. The magazine(s) should maybe be what was called "duo-tone" (half blued-half in the white) and the list goes on and on.

There are numerous publications that the serious collector has to judge "value" when buying or selling.

I too remember 1961 when the CMP (then DCM) would deliver a 1911 A1, direct to your front door for the princely sum of $12.62 which included shipping and handling, and tax. My remaining 1911A1 is an Ithaca (1943) all correct, and I have turned down offer of $2,500.

The Colt pictured below sold for $2,600 4 years ago, The Remington Rand went for $2,100 about 5 years ago, even the low serial number Argentine went for $1,000 with number matching mag and original grips shipped loose.

If you (and your Dad) do not want to invest in time or books, or cannot get some pictures (even cell phone pics) then I don't see a lot of valuable assistance coming from any forum, but if you are looking for just a quick value, then I would say...sight unseen, and assuming a 60% probable non- total original...then $750 to no more than $1,000 may be in order and should settle the estate and you probably won't be hurt as you are the buyer and can then take the time to truly see what you have.

On what you have stated...taking it to a LGS would be the worst...expect $200 to $250 tops.

Hope some of this helps.

03hemi · #4 05-02-2019, 08:34 AM

+1911 on what they said. I collect newer model 1911's.

bob1956 · #5 05-02-2019, 09:18 AM

That is in the range of the black army guns which if correct and unmolested bring a premium. One way to tell is take off one grip and if the cutout in the frame is square it’s not, but if the opening on the top end has a heart shape radius it probably is and those guns are highly desirable. Pictures posted here would help us help you.

stansdds · #6 05-03-2019, 07:49 AM

The only way to get a fair appraisal of such a firearm would be to have a knowledgeable collector detail strip the pistol and determine its originality and value.