This is an outstanding example of an original Colt U.S. Navy Contract Model 1911 semi-automatic pistol manufactured in 1915. This pistol was one of 500 guns shipped to the Brooklyn Navy Yard on March 5, 1915 for the Naval Militia as confirmed by the included factory letter. These early pre-WWI U.S. Navy contract pistols in original condition with original Navy marked slide are one of the most difficult 1911 series pistols to obtain. These were produced very early when the Navy was contracting directly with Colt for their service pistol requirements. Later all procurements were standardized and purchased only through the U.S. Army. All future procurements only have the U.S. Army markings. The left side of the slide is roll marked in a two line, two block pattern with the 1897-1913 patent dates followed by the Colt factory address followed by the circled Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right side of the slide has the very rare "MODEL OF 1911 U.S. NAVY" markings. The left front section of the frame is marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY", with the circled "GHS" Ordnance inspection mark of Major Gilbert H. Stewart above the magazine release. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number "No 109903". It also still retains its original early all blue barrel that is stamped with the separated "P" and "H" proof marks on the top of the chamber and a single number "5" stamped on the underside of the barrel in front of the lug. It has all the correct early parts such as a smooth face trigger, checkered slide stop, checkered thick thumb safety, checkered wide spur hammer, flat mainspring housing and checkered walnut grips with diamond pattern around the screws. This beautiful early Colt Navy pistol is complete with one unmarked two-tone magazine with the flat base lanyard loop on the underside. Provenance: The Milan J. Turk Collection