Description
Manufactured in 1936, this Colt ACE 1911 pistol is considered part of the inaugural batch of Service Model ACE pistols procured by the US Government for trials and evaluation. A noteworthy aspect of this pistol is its historical significance, underscored by a reproduction of the sales receipt from Rock Island Arsenal, addressed to Captain Mark Jartman, Office of Deputy Chief of Ordnance in Washington DC. The receipt authenticates the pistol’s provenance and adds a layer of historical context, linking it directly to significant military personnel and procurement processes of the time.
These early pre-World War II Service Model ACE pistols are rare, especially when adorned with distinct US markings. Such markings denote the pistol’s official use and its role in military evaluations, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. The rarity is compounded by the fact that many of these pistols were used extensively in trials, and thus, finding one in good condition with intact markings is uncommon.
Collectors and historians value these Colt ACE 1911 pistols for their craftsmanship and glimpse into military firearms’ evolution. The Service Model ACE, with its intricate design and historical connections, represents a pivotal moment in developing service pistols for the US military. Each pistol from this era tells a story of technological innovation and military strategy, reflecting the broader historical context of the pre-World War II period. Consequently, owning such a piece is not just about possessing a firearm; it’s about holding a tangible piece of history, a symbol of the technological and strategic advancements of the era.
High Caliber History on Youtube did an amazing and detailed video on the history of this exact firearm. Check that video out by clicking here.