Abstract: The method of identifying sets of metal medical instruments includes the steps of creating a color plan for identifying metal medical instruments, providing at least one medical instrument having a metal portion electro-depositing at least one colored water-borne polyurethane coating on the metal portion of each metal medical instrument in accordance with the plan. Each of the coatings is deposited in a layer which is thick enough to adhere to the instrument but not so thick as to crack or flake off the instrument. Each of the coatings is resistant to sterilization conditions with each color of the coatings contrasting with the instrument and with any other electro-deposited coating. The method further provides for allowing the coating to cure a temperature in the range of 270.degree. F.-350.degree. F. for a time period in the range of 2 minutes to 50 minutes.