Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this RARE semi-automatic pistol today for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Gold Cup Elite 40!
This example remains New Old Stock, showing no evidence of consumer use or handling whatsoever.
This Colt Gold Cup Elite chambered in .40 S&W is an exceptionally rare and highly desirable variant, representing one of the very few times Colt produced a factory 1911 in this caliber. Colt’s .40-caliber 1911s were made in extremely limited numbers—far fewer than their .45 ACP or 10mm counterparts—making any factory .40 S&W example a standout in both modern Colt production and 1911 collections. Designed with the precision and performance expected from the Gold Cup lineage, the Elite model elevates this rarity even further, offering superior fit, finish, and accuracy in a caliber seldom associated with Colt’s iconic platform. For collectors and shooters alike, this pistol represents a scarce opportunity to own one of the most uncommon and intriguing Colt 1911 chamberings ever offered, combining Gold Cup refinement with a cartridge configuration almost never seen on the open market.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Gold Cup Elite 40
Serial: 160GCE40
Date of Manufacture: 1991
Caliber: .40 Smith & Wesson
Finish: Two-Tone / Blued Slide w/ Stainless Frame
Barrel Length: 5"
Optics/Sights: Adjustable Rear w/ Fixed Cut Front
Stock/Grips: Smooth Wood Grips w/ Black Colt Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Gold Cup Elite 40 is a rare and performance-focused variant of Colt’s legendary Gold Cup target pistol line, created to deliver competitive-grade ergonomics and match-level features in the then-emerging .40 S&W chambering. Built on the 1911 platform, the Elite “40” version featured a stainless frame with a blued slide, an adjustable target sight system (typically an Elliason/Bomar rear paired with a flat-top rib and blade front sight), and a wide, match-grade Gold Cup trigger. It targeted shooters who sought top-tier precision, ergonomics and the versatility of a modern caliber in a classic 1911 layout. According to noted sources, production numbers were extremely limited—approximately 250 units in the .40 S&W caliber, making it the most scarce version within the Elite series alongside the slightly more plentiful 9 mm (˜ 750) and .45 ACP (˜ 1,000) models. Collectability for the Gold Cup Elite 40 stems from this combination of match-level design, limited production, and Colt’s craftsmanship pedigree. Its appeal lies in the hand-fitted components—match grade barrel and bushing, precision slide-to-frame fit, adjustable sights, and enhanced trigger—features that positioned it at the top of Colt’s competitive line of the era. Because so few were made in .40 S&W, finding a complete example in excellent condition with original box, manuals and factory accessories is exceptionally rare, enhancing desirability among competitive shooters and collectors alike. As a result, the Gold Cup Elite 40 is recognized not only for shooting excellence but also as a collector’s gem representing a special bridge between Colt’s target pistol legacy and the modern era of pistol calibers.
Contents:
Model: Gold Cup Elite 40
Serial: 160GCE40
Date of Manufacture: 1991
Caliber: .40 Smith & Wesson
Finish: Two-Tone / Blued Slide w/ Stainless Frame
Barrel Length: 5"
Optics/Sights: Adjustable Rear w/ Fixed Cut Front
Stock/Grips: Smooth Wood Grips w/ Black Colt Medallions
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Gold Cup Elite 40 is a rare and performance-focused variant of Colt’s legendary Gold Cup target pistol line, created to deliver competitive-grade ergonomics and match-level features in the then-emerging .40 S&W chambering. Built on the 1911 platform, the Elite “40” version featured a stainless frame with a blued slide, an adjustable target sight system (typically an Elliason/Bomar rear paired with a flat-top rib and blade front sight), and a wide, match-grade Gold Cup trigger. It targeted shooters who sought top-tier precision, ergonomics and the versatility of a modern caliber in a classic 1911 layout. According to noted sources, production numbers were extremely limited—approximately 250 units in the .40 S&W caliber, making it the most scarce version within the Elite series alongside the slightly more plentiful 9 mm (˜ 750) and .45 ACP (˜ 1,000) models. Collectability for the Gold Cup Elite 40 stems from this combination of match-level design, limited production, and Colt’s craftsmanship pedigree. Its appeal lies in the hand-fitted components—match grade barrel and bushing, precision slide-to-frame fit, adjustable sights, and enhanced trigger—features that positioned it at the top of Colt’s competitive line of the era. Because so few were made in .40 S&W, finding a complete example in excellent condition with original box, manuals and factory accessories is exceptionally rare, enhancing desirability among competitive shooters and collectors alike. As a result, the Gold Cup Elite 40 is recognized not only for shooting excellence but also as a collector’s gem representing a special bridge between Colt’s target pistol legacy and the modern era of pistol calibers.
Contents:
This example will ship with the Factory-Original Colt box and paperwork! This example remains New Old Stock, showing no evidence of consumer use or handling whatsoever.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
Bryant Ridge also reserves the right to cancel any sales that may occur while gunbroker.com is experiencing technical issues that affects the entire site or a complete site outage, within an hour of the auction ending.
We have an amazing inventory of classic and collector firearms that we are adding to Gunbroker daily. Stay up to date on all of our latest auction by adding us to your favorite sellers list.
About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
