US Army WWII Ithaca Model 1911A1 .45 ACP 5″ Semi-Auto Pistol 1945 C&R Rare
SOLD FOR: $2,300
WOA#: WY240224CC053
Make: Ithaca
Model: 1911-A1
Serial Number: 2134242
Year of Manufacture: 1945 (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. 2134242″ 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 “0”. 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”. The top of the slide is marked “F”, and the barrel is marked “P”. The magazine is marked with an “S” on the top of the toe plate, denoting manufacture by Scovill 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 mostly 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 bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates at 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The leading edges are worn, the front of the slide has worn finish, the barrel has drag marks, the frame has some wear from the action and some very small nicks. The screws and pins are unmarred. 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 Scovill “S” 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.
