This is a 2+ year old thread but I just wanted to point out that this information is still excellent and helpful. It is also the most informative single source of info on the Govt model that I currently Googled' up.
Along with SW revolvers, I once collected Ruger MK series pistols and had "more than a few". Of all those I sold off, the MK II Government model was one that was routinely missed. Not only was it a very accurate pistol but it had beautiful and classic lines. ( The MK II in general being the best of all MK series pistols IMHO anyway.)
Well, I just stumbled onto a clean one at a fair price in a LGS this week. (98%, blued, 2 mags, no box, SN 210-278xx) Nice government models are a pretty rare find these days so it is coming home with me to fill that void. Thanks to @Paladin85020 for taking the time to put this together.

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Dave