37mm x 94R markings and body colour

[BMG50]

Been collecting these for a while now, nice little round but what were the original markings and paint scheme. Always seen these with no finish and yet to see one with original paint and markings.

 

[Weasel]

I can't think that in over 30 years collecting i have seen any 37mm 1prs with paint except for a green painted German Sockleflack. Its a possibility that most were not painted to start with. A lot had the load type ink stamped on the base of the case so it could been seen when the were in the storage racks. 1.59"Crayford incendiary rounds had the base of the case painted red for the same reason.
Best Weasel

 

[BMG50]

They must have had some form of protection especially if they used them for Navel use.

 

[Gspragge]

Blurry image of two VSM 1prs. It seems that the main problem is no priming, a lacquer like finish.
The paint simply wears off over time easily. Hotchkiss projectiles can have a black finish, also prewar
French. American Army projectiles are red and these seem to hold up. Wartime French HE were a mustard colour, but
it seems not to stick well over time so the best examples are late 1930s. Lots also didn't seem to have a finish.