A total of 15,037 of these pistols were manufactured with the desirable U.S. Navy slide marking by Colt, all of which were delivered prior to April of 1915. After that, all Model 1911 pistols delivered to the navy would bear the standard U.S. Army nomenclature, of which there were approximately 578,473 manufactured, making this variation comparatively very scarce. This is an exceptional example of a first year production, U.S. Navy contract, Colt Model 1911 pistol that was shipped on 9 November 1912 to the Brooklyn Navy Yard ("The Government Models: The Development of the Colt Model of 1911" by Goddard). It is finished in the military brushed blue finish that was adopted in April of the same year. The left side of the slide is marked with the standard two-line, two-block Colt address and patent dates with the Rampant Colt behind the serrations, while the right bears the desirable "MODEL OF 1911 U.S. NAVY" marking. The correct brushed blue barrel with "H" inspection stamp visible on the rear face of the chamber hood. The left side of the frame has the U.S. property marking and "WGP" circled monogram of inspector Penfield above the magazine release, while the serial number is on the right. It is fitted with blade front and rounded top notch rear sights, checkered slide catch, thumb safety, magazine catch, and wide hammer, long smooth trigger, smooth flat mainspring housing with lanyard loop, a pair of diamond pattern checkered walnut grips, and a correct unmarked "key-hole" notch two-tone magazine with a lanyard loop on the base.

Excellent, retains 97% plus original high polish brushed blue finish with some scattered light scratches and handling/takedown marks. The grips are also excellent with some scattered minor dings and scratches, and mostly crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This is an opportunity to own one of the finest Navy Contract Colt Model 1911 pistols we have ever had the pleasure of offering at auction!