Mark IV/70 Series Nickel Finish Govt. Model

[Gutter736]

Hello everyone,

I am a newbie, both to this site and to 1911's. I just picked up a 70 series satin nickel finish Govt. Model last week and I wanted to get involved with a site like this for some info and discussion.

This gun has seen very little use in its life. It was manufactured in 1972 and I bought it from the original owner (via a consignment gun store). I feel I got a fantastic deal at $550. The gun came with a case, one aftermarket 8 round mag (a Wilson Combat I believe) and 7 additonal "standard" GI-style mags.

I am wondering if anyone knows how I can find out production numbers for the satin nickel finish in '72 (or total for the 70 series)? I can find info on the total number of Gov't models made, but not any specific to the satin nickel finish. I know alot of the Gold Cups were nickel, but everyone tells me satin nickel Govt. Models seem to be scarce. Any info would be appreciated and I will try to post some pics.

Thanks, and I look forward to enjoying some great conversation with all of you!

[fdreano]

I have a 1972 Mark IV/Series 70 'blued' all original and I love the gun and have had it since '75. You absolutely got a good price. You can actually have Colt research your gun and give you specifics on it (for a price).
Check out:

http://www.coltautos.com/default.asp and click on the HISTORICAL button on the left.

[daveohno]

Gutter736, welcome to the forum! Sounds like you got a great deal on that Government Model. Let me be the first to introduce you to the Gunny! :fp:

[paul45]

I have a 1972 Mark IV/Series 70 'blued' all original and I love the gun and have had it since '75. You absolutely got a good price. You can actually have Colt research your gun and give you specifics on it (for a price).
Check out:

http://www.coltautos.com/default.asp and click on the HISTORICAL button on the left.Good idea....but it will cost you a hundred and not tell you of production numbers.

I know alot of the Gold Cups were nickel, but everyone tells me satin nickel Govt. Models seem to be scarce.
Without proof at hand, I want to say that I think it is the other way around. I don't think a whole lot of series 70 Gold Cups were finished in nickel.....while series 70 Gov'ts in nickel are not too hard to find.
Never the less.....it sounds like you got a beauty for a great price...Congrats

[Gutter736]

Thanks guys!

I know, I know. Pics are coming tomorrow....


Another ?. I read on this site that Colt offered 3 kinds of nickel finishes on the 70's series. Satin, Bright, and Electroless. I also read that the satin guns had 'sc' in the serial number. Min is not bright, and it does not have 'sc' in the serial, so could mine be the Electroless? If so, is there any uniqueness or rarity there?

Personally, I don't care if it's rare from an ownership perspective (because I bought it to shoot it), but I would hate to put something of intristic value thru the paces I plan to put this pistol thru.

Thanks and pics are coming!