US Army WWII Ithaca Model 1911A1 .45 ACP 5″ Semi-Auto Pistol 1943 C&R Rare
SOLD FOR: $2,275
WOA#: WY240224CC068
Make: Ithaca
Model: 1911-A1
Serial Number: 877115
Year of Manufacture: 1943 (https://www.coolgunsite.com/pistols/colt%20production.htm)
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Removable Magazine Fed Single Action SA Semi-Automatic Pistol.
Markings: This pistol has “UNITED STATES PROPERTY / No. 877115″ and “M 1911A1 U.S. ARMY” along with an ordnance cartouche on the right side of the frame. The right side of the trigger guard is marked “3”. The left side of the slide is marked “ITHACA GUN CO., INC. / ITHACA, N.Y.”. The left side of the frame is marked “FJA / P”. There is an ordnance “bomb” on the inside of the frame. There is a “P” on the slide, and there is “HS / P” on the barrel. The magazine is marked with an “L” on the top of the toe plate, denoting manufacture by M.S. Little during WW2, one of the correct makers of mags used with Ithacas.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small blade with a serrated rear face that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a flat top U-notch that is dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered plastic grips. The grips show no wear. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The back strap is serrated. The grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Phosphate
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is well defined. There is some erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates at 8/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are minor nicks and scratches. There is light finish wear on this pistol and some of the finish on the sharp edges are worn. There is some action wear. Overall this pistol rates at Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One original US WW2 M.S. Little “L” marked 7 round blued magazine.
Our Assessment: The Ithaca M1911A1 served as a standard-issue sidearm for American soldiers during World War II, complementing Colt’s production of the M1911A1. Known for its reliability, durability, and stopping power, it became a trusted companion for infantrymen, officers, and other troopers in combat. While it may not have been as prolific as the Colt-produced M1911A1, the Ithaca variant still made significant contributions to American military history. Today, the Ithaca M1911A1 is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and connection to World War II. Well-preserved examples of these pistols are prized for their craftsmanship, reliability, and role in shaping firearms history. -R.E.
