This pistol falls within a large block of Colt Government Model pistols shipped to the British Ministry of Shipping in early 1919, right after the conclusion of World War I. The left side of the slide has the Rampant Colt between the patent dates and Colt address, each in two lines. while the right is marked with the .455 caliber marking. The right of the frame has the Government Model marking over the "W" prefixed serial number. British military proofs are visible on multiple parts, as well as "RAF." on the left of the frame and "SPA" on the right of the slide. The left grip is carved with a panel featuring the inscription "P.J.CAMPBELL/MAJOR/9thC.R.T." The most likely candidate for this inscription is Major Peter John Campbell who was born in Inverness, Scotland. He began his military career with the 50th Regiment Gordon Highlanders (Canada), where he served as a color sergeant. He then joined the 1st Pioneer Battalion as a lieutenant, which was part of the Canadian expeditionary force, serving with the 1st Canadian Division through The Second Battle of Ypres and the Battle of the Somme, before becoming the 9th Canadian Railway Troops in February of 1917. The pistol is fitted with fixed blade and notch sights, diamond pattern checkered grips, and a two-tone magazine with "CAL.455/ELEY" and a lanyard ring on the base. This pistol shipped very near to the time that the men of the 9th C.R.T. were discharged and sent home and it is likely that this pistol was presented to Major Campbell as a parting gift. Provenance: The Gus Cargile Collection

Very fine, retains 90% plus of the dull arsenal refinished blue with a few scattered dark blue rough patches and some light edge wear showing a smooth grey patina. The grips are fine with the finely executed, period added, inscription panel (see above) with some scattered minor dings and scratches, and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent.