May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/8/2024
One of the most sought after accessories for the early Thompson machine gun is the numbered 50 round "L" drum. This one is not only matching numbered "2157" but also marked on both body and cover "MGM" as that film studio's property. One can contemplate the classic films this drum might well have been used in. Perhaps James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, John Wayne, or one of your other favorite stars used this very drum on screen. Drum is marked “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORP, NEW YORK N.Y., U.S.A. PATENTED JULY 27 1920 DEC 7 1920 “NO 2157” on main body with matching numbered cover. Original nickel rotor inside. PROVENANCE: From the personal and advanced collection of Dr. Jim Watson of Scottsdale, Arizona. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish of drum is extremely fine original smooth blue finish thinning to a gray patina in places, especially at the high edges. One can see upon inspection that this drum was used, and functioned. These are a far scarcer drum to find than even the 100 round numbered drums. Add the film studio historical aspect to this piece and one really has something for the discerning forward thinking Thompson investor and collector. JWK 2024-05-086.