The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver as having been shipped on May 29, 1941 and delivered to the Navy Yard, Washington, D.C. The back strap has the U.S. Navy Civilian Police Corps marking: "U.S.N.C.P.C." In all there were 3,000 of these revolvers that were shipped the Navy Yard, Washington, D.C. and issued to Naval intelligence officers and into regular service. Some were reported as being sent Britain's Royal Air Force. The revolver is considered to be a pre-Victory Model. Matching serial numbers on the butt, right grip panel, cylinder and barrel. Comes with the original hinged maroon box numbered to the gun and featuring an end label with the ultra rare U.S. Ordnance ink stamping and "Helpful Hints" pamphlet.

Excellent, retaining 97% original blue finish with minor muzzle edge wear, slight thinning mostly on the grip straps and some minor handling marks. Nearly all original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are also excellent with minimal handling evidence and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent. The box is very good with some staining and a couple repaired corners. A rare U.S. Navy .38 M&P revolver and in its even more rare U.S. Ordnance marked original box missing from even the most advanced U.S. or S&W collections!