Collectors typically categorize Remington Rand slides into three distinct "Types" based on the roll marks. Type 1 (Early 1942–Early 1943): REMINGTON RAND INC. SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A. Large font, typically with a Du-Lite blue finish Approximately serial numbers 916,405 to 935,000 Type 2 (Early 1943): REMINGTON RAND INC. SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A. Smaller font compared to Type 1. Overlaps with Type 1, starting around serial Type 3 (Late 1943–1945): REMINGTON RAND INC. SYRACUSE, N.Y. U.S.A. Small font, often seen with a Parkerized finish Roughly serial numbers 1,026,948 and above 2. Frame Markings
Understanding transforms a rusty old pistol into a historical document. You are not just looking at a gun; you are looking at the largest contribution to the Allied victory by a typewriter company.
Whether you are verifying a $4,000 collector's piece or researching a family heirloom, a thorough understanding of these markings is your most powerful tool. Always remember: in the world of vintage 1911s, the proof is in the punch.
, the Rochester Ordnance District inspector responsible for Remington Rand and Ithaca production. P Proof Mark:
As noted, Frank J. Atwood’s initials are the final acceptance mark. However, note that on very early pistols (serial 856,001 – 860,000), the FJA mark is . The inspection was done by a Major R.S. Edwards. Those pistols have a R.S.E. mark instead. An FJA-marked pistol is standard; an R.S.E. marked pistol is a rarity worth a premium.
Unlike Colt, which used a "No" prefix with a small underlined "o," Remington Rand eventually transitioned to using a large "NO" (no underline) for its serial numbers, particularly starting around serial number 955,000.
The Remington Rand 1911A1 is a semi-automatic pistol that was produced during World War II, and it has become a highly sought-after collector's item among firearms enthusiasts. One of the key factors that determine the value and authenticity of a Remington Rand 1911A1 is the markings found on the gun. In this guide, we will provide an in-depth look at the various markings that can be found on a Remington Rand 1911A1, and what they can tell us about the gun's history and provenance.