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LOT 3449
Auto-Ordnance
Model 1928A1 Korean
War Commemorative
Thompson Submachine
Gun, Class III/NFA C&R
Fully Transferable Machine
Gun - Serial no. KWA91, 45 ACP cal., 10 1/2
inch round bbl., blue finish, walnut stock. Manufactured by Auto-Ordnance for distribution
by the American Historical Foundation, this is a post-WWII 1928 Thompson submachine gun
in “1928A1” configuration, outfitted and decorated as a commemorative piece for the Korean
War. While purchase of new military Thompson SMGs halted after World War II in favor of the
more cost effective M3 “Grease Gun”, the 1928, 1928A1, M1 and M1A1 Thompsons were not
fully replaced for many years, and they went into the field as a “substitute standard” when
the Korean War broke out. Highly useful during the close quarters brawling that resulted
from Chinese night assault tactics, Thompson-equipped GIs sometimes found themselves going head to
head with Thompson-equipped Chinese and Korean troopers, who also used the weapon (acquired through Warlord Era private purchases, WWII-period U.S. military aid, and manufactured in-country) as a supplement for their primary SMGs. Made as part of a limited run, this example is a very close copy of the 1928A1, with a fine gold plated finish applied to the compensator, cocking knob, rear sight wings, trigger and sling swivels, a high polish blue on the barrel and receiver flats, matte blue curves, and fancy hardwood furniture. The receiver markings are in the commemorative style, with commemorative badges laid into the right side of the pistol grip and both sides of the buttstock. The oiler assembly is absent, otherwise internals are 1928 standard. One magazine is included, a modern production “Type X” 10-round drum.
CONDITION: Excellent, with 97% plus original blue finish, showing some light scratches and handling marks. The wood is very fine, with scattered minor scuffs, dings and wear on the topcoat. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a “Curios or Relic” as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479. Estimate: 13,000 - 19,000
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