Welcome to today’s photo of the day! Here we have a 1911 manufactured Colt Model 1909 Double Action revolver marked “United States Property” with RAC inspection marks on the barrel, frame, cylinder and left grip under the barrel.
The 1909 was the standard weapon of the Army before John Browning’s semi-automatic changed everything. .45 Long Colt, 5.5-inch barrel, double and single action. It did the job it was told to do. Then came the 1911 and the revolver era in American military service effectively ended.
RAC markings indicate Rock Island Arsenal inspection. These came into service in 1908 and had been phased out by the time this particular example left the line in 1911. Some remained in the inventory as secondary and training weapons into the 1920s and beyond, which is the kind of thing that happens with US military assets. Fine condition with moderate wear. A working gun that spends time in service or armory storage is exactly what it was built for.
Most of our POTDs use images of our friends Rock Island Auction CompanyMajor firearms auction in the United States. Take some time to browse them current auction – Who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece of history to take home!
“US Army Colt Model 1909 Double Action Revolver.” Rock Island Auction, www.rockislandauction.com/detail/5031/837/us-army-colt-model-1909-double-action-revolver. Accessed 28 May 2026.
