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LOT 1413
Rare “Chinese Variant” North China Type 19 Semi-
Automatic Pistol, Assembly Number “01”, with Holster - NSN, 8
mm Nambu cal., 4 5/8 inch round bbl., blue finish, hardwood grips. One
of the great “mystery” weapons of World War II, assembled data suggests that
the “Type 19” was developed late in the war by Japanese forces deployed for
the occupation of China. While the occupiers had been able to make use of native
Chinese industry for the majority of the war, this use became more critical as the
naval situation continued to break down; American submarines had been a burden
on Japanese logistics for virtually the whole war, and by 1944 nowhere, not even the
Sea of Japan or Japanese home waters, could be considered safe from an American
torpedo. Starting with the Type 14 pistol design as a base, the Type 19 design sought to
simplify the design, trading off a higher weight for a reduction in parts and a much lower
need for fine detailed machining. It is believed that after the final collapse of Imperial
Japan, the Chinese continued to manufacture the Type 19 for their own use. Blade front
and notch rear sights, with a knurled cocking knob, takedown lever on the right side, safety
on the left, ribbed hardwood grips and an unmarked blued magazine with alloy base. The
receiver and frame are internally numbered “01”.A pair of struck out symbols are visible on the
right side of the frame and no other visible markings. Included with the pistol is a truly unique
brown leather flap holster with a shoulder strap and a 5-pointed star stitched into the flap.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, with 85% plus original blue finish, showing a few areas of gray
patina, edge wear and handling marks. The grips are very fine, with some dings around the magazine
catch. Mechanically excellent. The holster is fine.
Estimate: 14,000 - 22,500