Custom Colt MKIV Series 70 Gold Cup National Match 1911 .45 ACP Pistol 1980

SOLD FOR: $1,280

WOA#: WY240213MC010

Make: Colt

Model: Series ‘70 MK IV Gold Cup National Match

Serial#: 70N90210

Year of Manufacture: 1980 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber/Gauge: .45 ACP

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The right side of the slide is marked ”GOLD CUP / NATIONAL MATCH” and with an engraving of a trophy cup. The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S MK IV/SERIES ’70 / GOLD CUP NATIONAL MATCH / .45 AUTOMATIC CALIBER” with the rampant Colt logo.  The right side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” and has the serial number “70N90210”. The barrel is marked “COLT .45 AUTO N.M. / MK.IV/SERIES ‘70″. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in a triangle and “D”. The right side of the trigger guard is marked “7”. The rear sight is marked “Elliason”.  The grips feature gold Colt medallions.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the full-length rib on the top of the slide. The rear sight is an Elliason square notch sight adjustable for windage and elevation pinned to the slide. The top of the rib is serrated and the top of the slide is matte finished for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip:  The grips are two piece Colt branded checkered wood with gold Colt Medallions in their centers. The grip has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined with faintly worn peaks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grip is in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.  There is some fouling in the grooves.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is operation wear on the barrel.  There is a faint “idiot” mark on the frame. There is some minor wear on the leading edges.  The screwheads are sharp. The markings are clear.  Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit is snug. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: 

– Faux-wood cardboard Colt box with label.  The box displays some heavy handling wear.  Two of the ears are torn away.

– Assortment of factory paperwork including manual & yellow “stop-sign” hang-tag

– One 7-round Colt magazine

– Owner’s Manual

Our Assessment: Introduced as an off-the-shelf target pistol, Colt’s Gold Cup National Match 1911s have been a benchmark standard of quality for decades. There have been some variations since their introduction in the late ’50s, the Series ’70 introduced a collet barrel bushing, series ’80 a firing pin safety, and newer models offered various combinations of features, grips and sights. This is one of the Series ’70 Gold Cup National Match pistols made in 1980. The pistol is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen some light use.  Whether you’re looking for a great 1911-style target pistol or want to add a Gold Cup National Match to your collection, this is the choice for you. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.