Rare USMC Model 1909 Revolver

Description

4/8/25 - This is an original example of a Colt U.S. Marine Corps contract Model 1909 DA revolver that was manufactured in 1910. The Marine Corps purchased 1,300 New Services revolvers in the 23101-26300 serial number range from Colt through the Navy Department beginning in May 1909. In addition to the "U.S.M.C." markings, the Marine Model 1909 revolvers had a narrower round profile butt and were fitted with checkered two-piece walnut grips. The butt is roll-stamped "U.S./M.C." in two lines behind the lanyard swivel and has the Marine Corps serial number "No/520" stamped in two lines ahead of the swivel. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped "COLT D.A. 45" and the top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line Hartford legend and 1884, 1900 and 1905 patent dates. The left side of the frame behind the cylinder latch is roll-stamped with the Rampant Colt trademark on top of a stylized "C". The Colt serial number, "25002" is stamped on the inside of the frame and cylinder crane. The underside of the barrel is correctly not roll-stamped with the "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" marking found on Army and Navy Model 1909 revolvers or the Ordnance final inspection monogram. Produced in limited numbers, Marine Model 1909 DA revolvers are difficult to find in any condition and are both rare and desirable U.S. martial arms. This one shows noticeable finish loss, spotty brown patina, and light pin-pricking throughout. Fitted with correct checkered wood grips - fairly worn on both sides with no visible numbering. The bore has good rifling, but there is light pin-pricking throughout.