Manufactured in 1943. The left side of the barrel is marked "38" next to "DETECTIVE / SPECIAL" with the two-line Colt Hartford/patent dates marking on the right. Flaming bomb proof on top left of frame. Uncircled Rampant Colt is marked on the left side of the frame. Included is a U.S. marked Boyt leather holster with "48" on back. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, 2" barrel, blue finish with grips "Not Listed" and that it was shipped to the Military Intelligence Corps Depot, Transport Officer, Camp Richie, Highfield, Maryland as part of a 800 gun shipment, order #4152, on March 16, 1944.

Excellent with 97% original blue. There is a faint cylinder drag line and light wear to high edges and muzzle. Grips are excellent. Mechanically excellent. Holster is very good, with minor cracking and fading overall. One will look a long time to find another documented U. S. Colt Detective Special!