Manufactured in 1944, this is one of only 3,113 Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless pistols purchased by the Ordnance department in 1944-1945, and one of only 1,055 of the pistols received by the U.S. Navy. The majority of these pistols were issued to the Office of Naval Intelligence. The navy experienced malfunctions with some of the pocket automatic pistols, and the pistols were returned to Colt between April and June 1945 for testing. The tests determined that the malfunctions were caused by ejectors, extractors and bent magazine lips. The returned pistols were modified by Colt and stamped with "M" in front of the serial number. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration (grips not listed), as well as sale to the U.S. government and shipment to the Naval Supply Depot in Oakland, California on 9 August 1944 in a shipment of 59 guns. The letter also notes that the "M" prefix was added in front of the serial number when the pistols were returned to the factory for repair as previously mentioned. The left side of the slide is marked with the standard two-line address and patent dates, followed by the Rampant Colt behind the serrations. The right side of the slide is marked with the two-line caliber marking. The left side of the frame has the serial number with "M" prefix and an ordnance stamp at the rear, while the left has the U.S. property marking. It has blade and notch sights and is fitted with a pair of checkered walnut grips with Colt medallions. Includes an original Navy issue black leather holster used with this model during World War II.