This is one of just over 100 original prototype, or tool room sample pistols, manufactured by North American Arms Co. Ltd. of Quebec City, Canada. North American was awarded a US Ordnance Department contract (#WAR ORD P-11092-1953SA) on July 1, 1918, to produce 500,000 pistols at the rate of 2,000 pistols per day, at a cost of $15.50 each. North American’s production facilities were housed in the Ross Rifle factory, but the armistice that November caused the contract to be cancelled on December 4, 1918. As a result, North American Arms never delivered any pistols or spare parts to the US Government under the contract. In addition to the maker’s marking on the left side of the slide, North American Arms pistols differ from other contract-made Model 1911s by having an uncheckered hammer, no lanyard loop on the mainspring housing, serial number on the left rear of the slide, and no US acceptance or inspection stamps. Information gleaned from an ex-North American Arms employee indicates that a few of the late guns in the series were left in-the-white and were subsequently given a blued finish by one of the gunshops operating in Quebec City at the time. This example is also accompanied by a 1914 dated and Canadian property marked brass reinforced woven Mills 305 holster. CONDITION: Overall very good. The metal retains 95-97% of the commercial quality blue finish with some fading along the high edges and projections. Some subtle mottling is present along the sides of the slide, but the markings remain clear and the edges are still sharp and crisp. The checkered, double diamond grips are likewise in very good shape, with some minor wear and flattening of the points on either panel. The magazine is in good condition, but has two areas of cleaned pitting that have gray metal surrounding them. The pistol is mechanically excellent, with a fine, bright bore. Accessories: Holster Barrel Length: 5" Caliber/Bore: .45 ACP FFL Status: Curio & Relic Manufacturer: North American Arms Model: 1911 Serial Number: 97