December 6-8, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2023
We have offered some pretty fabulous original condition Colt Thompson machine guns at auction here at Morphy's, but this specimen here is without a doubt in the top 3. Absolutely the finest original condition 1921/28 Navy overstamp Thompson this cataloger has ever seen. Gordon Herigstad's serial number listing of serial numbers and histories indicates, "Lawrence Heiskell collection, Virginia 1999". This gun has 1928 internal parts and correctly "anchor" marked original buttstock. Typical markings on receiver with visible serial numbers matching. Crisp clear lettering and sharp edges throughout. 3 lustrous blue 20-round "Bridgeport" magazines, a 20-round "Seymore" magazine, a "Bridgeport" 50-round drum, and an original blue felt lined hard case with 20 1/2" brass cleaning rod and reproduction tin parts box is included. Electronic NFA registry indicates "THOMPSON" as the manufacturer. PROVENANCE: From the estate of a very discerning and advanced collector. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is absolutely spectacular, near excellent deep lustrous blue original finish with only the slightest loss of finish (barely discernible) at the stock attachment point and at the very rear of the actuator slot. Closest possible inspection is needed discern any shortcomings in the metal finish. One can "feel" the grain of this original, unsanded, unmessed-with wood, which has only the slightest of handling marks. Mirror bore is near excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt face is near excellent. Mechanics are crisp. This is a select fire machine gun. Magazines and drum are extremely fine, and the very sought-after original case is extremely fine to near excellent, but these are completely overshadowed by the condition of this gun. Whether you are a consummate advanced Thompson collector, or someone who wants just one machine gun, and it has to be among the very best available, this is a gun you should very seriously consider. Original condition unlikely to be topped. Definitely in the top 3 of Colt Thompsons that this cataloger has ever evaluated for auction. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 3 OR 4 AS CURIO & RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2023-12-78