This is an example of a U.S. Navy marked Colt Model 1911 pistol from a lot of 1000 shipped to the U.S. Navy Yard, New York, New York on August 23th, 1913. The pistol has the high polished blue finish, approved by the ordnance department on March 23, 1912. Rounded rear sight, early short hammer, safety lock with thin thumb piece, two-tone magazine with lanyard loop and oil finished checkered walnut grips with the diamond pattern around the screws. The right side of the slide is marked "MODEL OF 1911 U.S. NAVY" and the left side is marked with the two line two block "1897,1902,1905" and "1911" patent dates followed by "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG.CO. / HARTFORD C.T. U.S.A." with the Rampart Colt trademark behind the slide serrations. Small "H" inspector mark on back of slide above firing pin. The left side of the frame has "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" and the circled "WGP" monogram of ordnance Inspector Major Walter G. Penfield stamped above the magazine release. The top of the barrel at the chamber is marked with an "H" and "P". The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, barrel length, blue finish with the stocks as "Not Listed" and the above mentioned shipping information. Complete with a scarce 1911 dated flap holster marked "US" on the flap and "R.I.A. / 1911. / T.C.C." on the back of the swivel and "16 / BB 34" at the bottom, and a tan unmarked canvas web belt and double magazine pouch.

Fine. The pistol retains 60% of the original high polished blue finish. The forward portion of the top of the slide has a smooth gray patina and the slide and upper sides of the frame appear to have had a solvent splattered on them, causing the finish to flake off leaving a smooth silver gray. The front strap shows some thinning and there is some high edge wear. The grips are very good with scattered minor dings and dents and crisp checkering. The markings remain crisp and clear. The action is excellent. The holster is good with a minor tear and some stitching separating on the belt flap, the brass flap fastener has separated and remains with the holster and there is some minor age cracking. The belt and magazine pouch are good with some staining.