Colt 1911 Serial Numbers U.s. Government

Colt stopped producing M1911A1s for the government in September 1945 with serial number 2,255,000 . Any Colt 1911 with a serial number above that is a commercial model, a replica, or a later re-issue (e.g., from the CMP).

Because these pistols are highly collectible—and frequently faked or misrepresented—understanding is paramount. This guide provides a deep dive into the serial number ranges, manufacturing periods, and distinguishing features of authentic U.S. Government-issued Colt 1911s. colt 1911 serial numbers u.s. government

1918 Inspector: GHS (Gilbert H. Stewart) Accepted by: U.S. Army Finish: Original blued (military transition) Grip safety: Short (pre-A1) Not a rebuild – original early WWI configuration Authenticity: Match confirmed to government contract range (Nos. 1–~230,000) Colt stopped producing M1911A1s for the government in

A mismatch between a serial number and the physical features (like slide markings or grip safety type) is the first red flag of a “parts gun” or a forgery. This guide provides a deep dive into the

| Year | Serial Number Start | Serial Number End | Model | Notable Features | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 1912 | 1 | ~10,000 | M1911 | Blue finish, flat mainspring | | 1918 | ~210,000 | 230,000 | M1911 | Late WWI, black army finish | | 1937 | 710,000 | 720,000 | M1911A1 | Pre-war, high polish park | | 1942 | 856,001 | 955,000 | M1911A1 | Early WWII, small parts blued | | 1943 | 955,001 | 1,475,000 | M1911A1 | Full parkerize, plastic grips | | 1944 | 1,475,001 | 1,950,000 | M1911A1 | Standard WWII production | | 1945 | 1,950,001 | 2,255,000 | M1911A1 | End of government contract |