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LOT 385
U.S. Auto-Ordnance/Savage Model
1928A1 Thompson Submachine Gun
with British Proofs and Desirable
“TOMMY GUN” Markings, Class III/NFA
C&R Fully Transferable Machine Gun with
Extra Magazines, Including a 100-Round “C”
Drum - Serial no. S-257775, 45 ACP cal., 10 1/2 inch
fluted bbl., blue/matte blue finish, walnut stock. This is
a scarce example of a World War II M1928A1 Thompson
submachine gun manufactured by the Savage Arms
Company under license from the Auto-Ordnance Company, with an “S-” prefix
serial number. Blade front sight on the Auto-Ordnance/Thompson marked Cutts
compensator, Lyman folding ladder rear sight, with the “US MODEL OF 1928A1”,
“RLB” and “GEG” on the left side of the receiver, Bridgeport address and eight-line
patent markings on the right, and “TOMMY GUN” on top. A set of British proofs
are also present, with tonnage marks on the barrel and faint “crown” proofs on
top of the receiver and charging handle. While not documented, the combination
of these proofs and the positioning of the sling swivels (left side of front pistol
grip and top of buttstock) suggest transfer to Great Britain for military use during
World War II as part of Lend-Lease, and later return to the United States. Internals
are 1928 pattern, with “S” marked bolt and Blish lock, and an unmarked charging
handle, spring guide and oiler. The trigger housing is numbered to match the
receiver, with lightly knurled control switches. Fitted with grooved pistol grips, a
quick-detach buttstock, modified as previously noted, and a green canvas sling.
Included with the lot are one Type “C” 100-round drum magazine, two Type “L”
50-round drum magazines, three stick magazines, three canvas drum pouches
(one “C” and two “L”), and a manual.
CONDITION: Fine, with 80% of the arsenal refurbished matte blue finish on
the muzzle device, receiver and trigger housing, showing mild spotting, edge
war and handling marks. The barrel is an arsenal installed replacement, with a
similar percentage of polished blue finish. The stock is very good as sanded and
repaired, with pin reinforcement at the wrist, scuffs and dings. 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: 18,000 - 27,500
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