October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
Marked “fxo” and eagle over “37” which indicates final assembly by C.G. Haenel, with subcontractor “cos” which is Merz Werke. Marked “MP 44”. SN is actually 4687y with manufacture in 1945 as indicated by markings on left side of magazine well. Operating rod was manufactured by ERMA and SN does not match. Unnumbered early bolt without cutout is cracked directly across the face perpendicular to the extractor. This can be repaired or the bolt otherwise replaced. Buttstock and hand grip assemblies SNs match receiver which is marked with “WaA254” proof mark (Krupp, Berlin). Gas block was manufactured by “ce” which is J.P. Sauer with C.G. Haenel final proof. Magazine was manufactured by C.G. Haenel. It was common practice for sub-assemblies of these guns to be provided by sub-contractors with final assembly and final proof by one of the major firms. PROVENANCE: The class III weapons formerly on loan to Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is fine with over 90% of the original military finish remaining with numerous nicks and scratches from use and some dust mixed with oil in recessed areas. Spots of old light pitting in recessed areas. Mechanics need attention as noted. Wooden hand grip has slight gouges and handling marks. Original laminated wood buttstock is later lower profile style to more easily stow in vehicle racks. Butt measures 5? from heel to toe and it has a 6? crack on left side running parallel to receiver line. Buttstock is also marked with “fxo” (C.G. Haenel). Operating rod could use a cleaning but there is minimal corrosion. Main spring has an even brown patina. Bolt has some light pitting with fluted firing pin and is in good condition however please note that since bolt is cracked this piece should be reworked or replaced before firing. The German assault rifle pioneered the use of the intermediate sized cartridge. 1945 dated specimens are rarely encountered. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 5 AS CURIO & RELIC ELIGIBLE DEACTIVATED MACHINE GUN. THIS GUN MAY BE REACTIVATED UPON APPROVAL OF APPLICATION TO THE BATF. JWK 2019-10-85.