Manufactured in 1932, this pistol bears the marking "SHANGHAI MUNICIPAL POLICE/No 2973" on the right side of the frame, with the number repeated on the right side of the slide and barrel. Additionally, the pistol shows a number of variant features known to have been special ordered or custom installed by the Police, including a lanyard staple on the left side of the grip frame, a drilled and tapped hole above the thumb safety for installing a lock out screw, a leaf spring barrel tension device on the left side of the slide and a magazine with cartridge counting holes down the back and on the front left side. Devised by noted close-quarters combat expert Colonel William Fairbairn, these alterations were based on a combination of rational theory and bloody first hand experience in order to enhance the 1908 for the kind of chaotic, close-in fighting that would occur in the alleyways and buildings of Shanghai. This is in addition to the standard Colt markings, with a full blue finish and a pair of checkered black plastic grips. With a brown cardboard box.

Very good as police arsenal refurbished and upgraded, with 90% of the dull blue finish, showing mild pitting beneath the blue, deeper around the grips, bright edge wear and scattered handling marks. The safety lock-out screw has been discarded, restoring thumb safety function. The grips are good replacements, with mild dings and scuffs. Box is good. Mechanically very good.