Pre-70 Series Colt Commander

[SFG(A)]

I have a chance to buy a Pre-70 Series Colt Commander in 30 super. It is in approx. 90% condition with 2 magazines but no box or anything else. I have not seen the pistol yet, but assuming the description is accurate what would be the approx. value? Is this the model with the dark brown plastic grips or is that the later Series 70 Commander? Thanks in advance.
Roy

Information

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[Johnny Peppers]

I think you meant Super .38 caliber. As far as I know all the pre-70 series Commanders had plastic grips with the molded in Rampant Colt, although their color will vary with when they were made.

[SFG(A)]

Thanks, you are right its a 38 super. I know I proof read that post a couple of times, and I still missed that. Thanks again.
Roy

[padre]

Worth in a range of $900-$1200

[SFG(A)]

I just purchased the pistol, I will post some pictures shortly.

[SFG(A)]

Serial number is 57XX-LW. I don't know the year of manufacture? The only blemish is the scratch on the right side of the receiver Thanks for any help.
Roy

[Sunray]

"...right its a 38 Super..." S'ok, we'll let that one go. A bit of cold bluing will fix the scratch. Grips are no big deal. Frame's the same as any .45 Government.
.38 Super ammo isn't exactly inexpensive and most of the on-line suppilers are out of stock.
To use .45 ACP, you need another slide as a minimum.

[smokey]

I believe that's a 1950 Commander[second year of production] That's a pretty rare piece,so I wouldn't fool with it.Those grips are really fragile and will shrink and warp,if they have not already done so.And, NO,I don't think cold blue will work on the aluminium frame. If you have to have one to use, sell that one to a collector and you should get enough to buy a later one and plenty of ammo. Just my opinion. Nick

[Johnny Peppers]

The early plastic grips did not have the tendency to shrink and crack, and those don't show any signs of shrinkage. You are correct that cold blue doesn't work on aluminum alloy.
The Government Model receivers were steel, where the Commanders were aluminum alloy. I guess I missed the part where Roy said he wanted to shoot .45 ACP in the pistol.

[SFG(A)]

Thanks everyone for your comments. I am happy I was able to purchase this pistol. The grips do not show any signs of shrinking nor cracking. I believe the grips are original to the pistol. I might shoot just a couple of rounds through it, just because I have never fired the 38 super round. No I was not going to shoot 45 in the pistol. Any advise on the scatch? Thanks again.
Roy