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LOT 1388
Documented Japanese Tokyo Arsenal Model 1902 Grandpa Nambu Semi-
Automatic Pistol with Shoulder Stock - Serial no. 2043, 8 mm Nambu cal.,
4 5/8 inch round bbl., blue finish, hardwood grips. Forerunner of the Type 14
Nambu that would be the standard Japanese sidearm of World War Two, the
Grandpa Nambu was produced in relatively limited quantities well before the
Papa Nambu was introduced, with only around 2,400 made by Tokyo Arsenal.
The serial number of this Grandpa Nambu is recorded in “Hand Cannons of
Imperial Japan” by Derby (page 44), where the survey reports Thai markings and
a “short” style matching stock. A number of Grandpa Nambus are known to be
so marked, though the exact circumstances behind it haven’t been conclusively
determined. Blade front and tangent rear sights, with the “stacked cannonball”
Tokyo mark on the chamber, 3-symbol nomenclature on the right side and the
Thai “sunburst” style mark visible on lower front gripstrap. The original pattern
fixed lanyard staple and slotted backstrap are present and unaltered. Matching
numbers are present overall, including the checkered grips and the nickel
finished wood base magazine. The stock body is constructed from hardwood,
with blued steel hardware, a matching serial number, and a telescoping neck for
the mounting iron.
CONDITION: Fine as arsenal refurbished/subsequently professionally restored,
with 90% of the blue finish, showing high edge wear, areas of light spotting
and brown patina, and mild handling marks. The grips are also fine, with some
chipping around the edges and minor dings. Mechanically excellent. The
professionally restored stock is well polished with attractive grain and 95% plus
blue finish on the renumbered to match hardware, though the neck and iron
mechanisms need adjustment.
Estimate: 11,000 - 16,000
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