Is This Worth Anything?

[new1911er]

I acquired an old 1911 barrel. I had done some research once and found out that this barrel was only produced from 1937 to 1943, made in the springfield armory plant and is worth approx. $300. Is there anybody that can tell me if this is true or not. On the Left side of the lug it is stamped S P. The barrel appears to be in good shape minus discoloration from apparent use. Any info would be helpful.

[dsk]

Springfield did indeed make field replacement barrels, but I think you'd have a hard time selling it for $300. $100 is more like it.

[new1911er]

I thought it was a little strange when i saw it for 300. But i am still new to the whole 1911 thing. Getting better though. Do you by chance have any further info on these barrels? Anything would be appreciative.

[dsk]

There isn't much to say about them except that they were only used as field replacements. They make interesting collecting odds and ends, but would not have been original equipment in any of the various contractors' pistols. Sadly I'm not surprised that somebody thought it was worth asking $300 for one. Some places (especially gunshops) seem to think anything USGI-related is like gold. I recently saw a badly tattered WW2-vintage Luger holster in one shop for $200. Apparently they've had it for nearly a year yet still refuse to budge on the price. How places like that stay in business in beyond me, except to say I guess they know a sucker will come along eventually and let them close early.

[new1911er]

Now stupid question. I was noticing on the usgi site you have at the bottom of your reply, that they have all the different barrel markings. Now it shows the ones marked SP but they are in different locations and stamped differently then mine. Does that make any difference?