I have a 1911A1 manufactured by Colt in 1944 (GI issue). It has obviously been rebuilt at least once. What's unusual about the pistol is the slide. Although it too was manufactured by Colt's and has the traditional Colt's roll-marks on the right side, the left side has nothing but a number - 7790314. This is not a serial number and I've seen pictures of other slides with the same numbers. It has been referred to as a "Colt's Contract Slide" and/or a "depot slide". Presumably the slide was manufactured by Colt's as spare parts for all M1911s and used as a replacement slide at the depot maintenance level.
Can someone tell me more about this slide - history, use, etc. Apparently they are somewhat rare collectibles because they're drawing high prices on ebay.
Thanks
DonDale
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