This is a scarce USMC contract pistol that was 1 of 1,250 pistols shipped to the U.S. Marine Corps Depot Quartermaster in Philadelphia, Pa. on July 9, 1913. These were manufactured as a standard Army contract pistol and are distinguishable only by the serial number ranges. They all exhibit the early Colt parts and markings as follows; the left side of the frame has the small "UNITED STATES PROPERTY". Directly above the magazine catch release button is marked with the circled intertwined "WGP" of Major Walter G. Penfield the US Ordnance inspector at Colt. The right side frame is marked with the serial number and the top of the frame has the early acceptance proofs of the letter "H" and "T". The left side of the slide is marked with the very early Colt two-line patent/ address markings of "PATENTED APR 20 1897/SEPT. 9 1902, DEC 19 1905, FEB 14,1911",and "COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG CO./HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A." with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. It also has the early round top rear sight and narrow front sight. The various parts and components are all the early versions such as; blue Colt barrel with the single "P and H" on top, early 1911 checkered slide stop, thin thumb piece, short grip safety, flat mainspring housing and the early short Colt hammer with the wide checkered spur. Two tone magazine with lanyard ring on the base and fitted with checkered walnut grips with a diamond around the screws and lanyard ring on the heel.

Fair as refinished. The pistol shows mostly an artificial dark plum brown finish on the slide and frame with light wear through turning a gray patina on the front edges of the slide and the front grip strap. The various early components noted above are all correct period manufacture but some have been touched up or exhibit less browning as they have a bright blue finish. The grips are very good with a few minor dings and wear, and very crisp checkering. Most of these USMC 1911's saw heavy use and went through many rebuilds. To find one in any condition is difficult.