Need a idea of the value on a Govt. Model 1911 45

Hi All,
I have a 1911 Colt 45 made between 1915 and 1919, the serial # is No 174440, there is a line under "o" (in No). The serial; # is in the frame on the right hand side. On the right side if the slide it says MODEL OF 1911 U.S. ARMY.
On the left hand side of the slide it has Patiant #s and COLTS PT.F.AMGF.CO. and under that it says HARTFORD,CT. USA
On the frame under the patent #s it says UNITED STATES PROPERTY.
I have check in 3 books and tried on-line and have conflicting info. can anyone out there give me some correct info on the value of this pistol? Is is $450.000 or $6,000.00 clearly I don't know so any help will be appreciated. And where is the best place to sell this if I decide to do that.
Thnaks,
Craig

Craig,
my guess. and it would be just a guess! is the upper end of your est. i had a early colt. right around the same era. prety good condidtion. not a bad piece at all. it also had a lend lease stamp on it!i sold it about six years ago for $4200.00.