This revolver was shipped to the U.S. Govt. Storekeeper, U.S.M.C. Depot, Philadelphia Pennsylvania on August 28, 1909 according to pages 26 and 28 of “Colt New Service Revolvers” by Bob Murphy. This is a solid representative example of a Colt U.S. Marine Corps contract Model 1909 revolver. It is one of 1,300 New Service revolvers in the 23101-26300 serial number range purchased by the Marine Corps beginning in May 1909. In addition to the "U.S.M.C." markings, the U.S.M.C. Model 1909 revolvers had a narrower round profile butt and were fitted with hand-checkered two-piece walnut grips. The butt is roll-stamped "U.S./M.C." in two lines behind the lanyard swivel and has the Marine Corps serial number "No/177" stamped in two lines ahead of the swivel. The top of the barrel has the standard two-line address and patent dates and the left is marked "COLT D.A. 45". The left side of the frame behind the cylinder latch has the Rampant Colt trademark on top of a stylized "C". The Colt serial number, "24069" is stamped on the inside of the frame and cylinder crane. The partial serial number "4069" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder latch. A "T" inspection of assembly mark is stamped on the inside of the frame near the serial number. The Colt "triangle/VP" proof mark is stamped on the left side of the frame above the front trigger guard bow and a "3" assembler's mark is stamped above the rear trigger guard bow. Includes a scarce U.S.M.C. marked leather holster, of which only 600 were manufactured. The example included with this revolver shows field type modifications allowing the trimmed flap to be tied to the back of the holster.

Very good, retains 30% of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to a grey or brown patina, mostly in the form of mild holster wear, and the Rampant Colt marking on the left of the frame slightly softened. The grips are fair showing extensive handling wear and minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The period field modified holster is good with moderate wear.