I've got a Colt 1917 revolver in very nice condition. It has the military matte finish, and enough wear to look original, BUT while the acceptance stamp (left side, just above the cylinder release) is crisp, the rampant Colt stamping on the left side plate is faint.
The puzzler is that in addition to the serial number on the frame in the crane recess, and on the crane (181XXX), there is an additional number, 4240, on the crane, frame, AND again on the barrel.
The crane recess is also stamped with the letter "X" just above the 4240, and a small letter "H". The barrel is also stamped with the small letter "H".
What do I have here? Original gun, arsenal refinish, or a later refinish?
Thanks!
The puzzler is that in addition to the serial number on the frame in the crane recess, and on the crane (181XXX), there is an additional number, 4240, on the crane, frame, AND again on the barrel.
The crane recess is also stamped with the letter "X" just above the 4240, and a small letter "H". The barrel is also stamped with the small letter "H".
What do I have here? Original gun, arsenal refinish, or a later refinish?
Thanks!