Manufactured in 1957, this pistol was sent to 2nd Lieutenant John D. Carlton from Colt. The top of the slide has the factory engraved inscription "SECOND LIEUTENANT JOHN D. CARLTON,/071434, USMC/ BASIC SCHOOL HONOR GRADUATE/1956". An internet search revealed a Major John D. Carlton Recon Squadron, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division won the Silver Star in the Vietnam War, April 16, 1972. More research needed. The slide has the standard markings and the serial number is on the right side of the frame. Low profile fixed sights, polished blue finish on the flat surfaces, matte on the remainder, Colt marked blue magazine and fitted with checkered plastic grips with the Rampant Colt in a circle in the center. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, barrel length, blue finish with grips as "Not Listed", the factory engraved slide, that the pistol was shipped as 1 as a "Sales Expense" to Lt. General M.B. Twining, U.S.M.C., Commandant, Marine Corps School in Quantico, Virginia on September 24, 1957.

Excellent. The pistol retains 99% original blue and matte blue finish with some very slight wear lower front portion of the slide from normal cycling, a few light scuffs on the bottom of the magazine and butt, and overall light handling/storage marks. The grips have dulled a bit with age, however remain excellent with sharp checkering. The markings and inscription are crisp and clear. Mechanically excellent.