Well most of one anyway. I didn't think it was a real one to begin with and just threw it in my trolley, but cleaning up in some rust remover and some vigorous brushing revealed "United States Property" and a serial number engraved on one side, and the letters G.H.D on the other which confirmed that it is the body of a real gun!
Definitely wasn't expecting to find this in the canal in Gloucester. I think it's from WW2 judging by the state of it and the markings, but I'm definitely not an expert.
Here's a picture of the other side, the G.H.D engraving isn't really visible on camera though:
That is a very cool find. If you can make out the serial number you should be able to tell who made it and in which year.
https://www.coolgunsite.com/pistols/colt%20production.htm
https://sightm1911.com/1911Production.htm
I think it was made by Colt in 1942. I wasn't sure of the first digit in the serial number but it looks like either an 8 or a 3 and the G.H.D inspection marker means it must be an 8. Pretty cool, thanks for the links!
That would be cool to find out. The first few digits are difficult to make out, but I'll probably have another go with a wire brush and see if I can make them legible.
Use a copper brass or bronze brush if possible. It'll do less damage to the underlying frame.