How's the market for collectible M1911s?

[Dr. T]

I'm not familiar with the market at all but am seriously looking. Has the market dropped with the economy in general? As an example, what would be a fair market price for a 1917 Colt, mid 150K serial number, 100% original, matching and correct with 99+% mint finish?

[Scott Gahimer]

The 157xxx or 158xxx (I don't remember which) Colt you are probably askng about on GB looks like a nice pistol, but would require an in-hand inspection by someone experienced and knowedgeable to verify originality of all parts and finish. Condition generally is never as good as what the photos show, and many sellers are pretty loose with their 99% descriptions (I'm not speaking of any specific seller).

Value of such a piece as you describe in your query, if original, would be somewhere north of $5K IMO.

[Dr. T]

Thanks Scott,
I wish the seller was closer! He has excellent feedback selling collectible firearms, a 3day inspection return policy and told me the gun is from one of the best collections in the country. Still it feels like buying a pig in a poke. Maybe there's someone in the Seattle area that could look at it after it arrives......................you coming to Seattle any time soon? :)

[Scott Gahimer]

I'm not headed for Seattle, but I did look at the pistol among several others a couple months ago.

I don't remember all the details, as our vist was personal in nature.