1916 marking
 

I have a 1916 with the snail drum (2nd variation) holster and shoulder stock. It is a real nice gun 95% straw 97% blue all matching (of course) except the mag.

On the grip strap is a prancing pony and the date 1920. I think it may be some type of rework mark. Anyone have a clue? What does this marking mean and the history? Does this depreciate the value.... or increase??

Do you need more info and what other markings should I look for?

Sorry about the bad photo but my lights, etc. are in a temporary, relocated space as I am painting the room.
http://boards.rennlist.com/upload/Dscn1531.jpg

This must be the rare Colt Factory test piece. Seriously, The Hamburg Poice (and city) did use a rampant colt as their logo. You might want to explore this connection. Tom H.

Both Constanzo's WOL and also Dieter Marschall's books on Walthers call a similar horse marking a Hannover proof mark. WOL says it is vintage 1953. ???????? <img src="graemlins/c.gif" border="0" alt="[ouch]" />

Thanks Ted, I meant to say Hannover rather than Hamburg. They say that the memory is the first thing to go. Tom H.

So from what you are saying, it is a city property marking? Did the police or other city employees carry Artillery Lugers? or was it for some sort of civil defense?