The 1911 has been around for well over a century, and some versions are more than just solid shooters—they’re gaining value. Whether it’s historical ties, limited production runs, or a brand with loyal followers, certain 1911s are quietly becoming smart investments. If you’ve got one of these tucked away, it might be worth more than you think.
Here are a few collectible 1911s that aren’t just holding their value—they’re climbing.
Colt Series 70
Colt’s Series 70 pistols from the 1970s and early ’80s are starting to catch the eye of serious collectors. They’ve got that old-school Colt rollmark, a smooth trigger, and a vintage vibe that’s getting harder to find.
Originals in good shape, especially in .45 ACP, are seeing steady price bumps. Folks appreciate the fit and finish on these, and they’re not being made like this anymore.
Springfield Armory TRP Operator
The TRP Operator isn’t ancient, but it’s developed a solid following—and used prices are creeping up. It’s one of those pistols that feels like it was built for real-world use, not just for looks.
The full-length dust cover, checkered front strap, and no-nonsense reliability make it desirable. Some runs, like the older FBI models or discontinued variants, are especially sought after.
Ithaca WWII M1911A1
WWII-era 1911s have always had collector value, but Ithaca-produced models are seeing a noticeable jump. They were made in limited numbers compared to Colt and Remington Rand, and folks are finally catching on.
Original finish and matching serials go a long way here. These aren’t just war relics anymore—they’re pieces of history that are turning into strong long-term investments.
Les Baer Premier II
Les Baer guns are hand-fitted, and people are starting to treat them like functional collectibles. The Premier II is the most common model, but that doesn’t mean it’s being overlooked.
Prices for clean used ones are on the rise, especially with the extras like hard chrome finishes or custom shop touches. They’re built to last, and that’s exactly what buyers want when dropping money on a collector-grade piece.
Colt WWI Reproduction
Colt did a run of WWI-style 1911s in the early 2000s, and they nailed the look and feel. These guns weren’t made in huge numbers, and they’re already starting to get priced like collector pieces.
Because they’re technically modern pistols, you can shoot them without the same worry as a true antique. But most folks are leaving them in the safe, watching the value tick up year after year.
Wilson Combat CQB
Wilson Combat pistols aren’t cheap to begin with, but they’re holding value like few other modern 1911s—and some are going up. The CQB is their flagship model and still one of the most in-demand custom 1911s out there.
Early runs and special editions are the ones collectors are chasing. If you’ve got a low round count CQB with paperwork and the original case, you’re sitting on something worth holding onto.
Remington Rand M1911A1
Remington Rand churned out more 1911s during WWII than any other contractor, but that doesn’t mean they’re all over the place. Clean, original examples with proper markings and finish are steadily gaining traction among collectors.
They’re a bit more accessible than some other wartime models, but prices are creeping up as the good ones get snatched off the market. A fully correct Remington Rand is starting to feel like a safe bet.
Ed Brown Executive Carry
Ed Brown’s Executive Carry 1911 is one of those pistols that flies under the radar—until you shoot one or try to buy one used. The craftsmanship, tight tolerances, and attention to detail make them desirable.
Because production numbers are limited and the quality is top-tier, resale prices are staying strong. Some models are already starting to appreciate, especially ones with rare features or discontinued options.
Rock Island Armory Tactical II FS – Limited Edition
While Rock Island isn’t usually the first name that comes to mind for collectible 1911s, their limited-run Tactical II FS pistols have started turning heads. Some batches had unique finishes or upgraded internals that aren’t being made anymore.
Collectors on a budget are starting to chase these down, and used ones in great shape with original boxes are quietly ticking up in value. It’s one of the few affordable options actually moving in the right direction.
Kimber Super Match II
The Super Match II is Kimber’s top-tier competition 1911, and it’s got the build quality to back it up. Unlike most of Kimber’s more common offerings, this one’s hand-fitted and tuned right out of the box.
Because of its limited production and accuracy reputation, it’s developed a niche following. Clean models with low mileage are becoming harder to find, and that’s pushing the market upward.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
