June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
Attractive Colt Thompson marked on left side "US Navy Model of 1928", with overstamped "8" over "1" with typical other receiver markings with added Danville, Virginia Police department markings on left side of receiver over chamber. This indicates that this gun, like many others found its way to the police after it was released from the Navy. Stock exhibits "SPD 51" which indicates to this cataloger that the stock is likely from another police gun. Unmarked Cutts compensator. Lower assembly matches upper assembly. 1928 model parts inside receiver. Accessories include one 50 round "Bridgeport" drum and three 30 round magazines. Originally built as commercial guns when the Colt Model 1921 Thompson's were taken into service with the U.S. Navy they were retrofitted with a heavier actuator and different bolt and main spring to slow the rate of fire in accordance with Navy specifications. This was primarily an ammunition saving measure. The U.S. Navy markings were engraved above the model marking and the "1" was overstamped with an "8" to indicate this change. Subsequently when the Navy released these guns many found their way to various law enforcement agencies as evidently this one did. Overall appearance and finish very fine to extremely fine as refinished with a dark lustrous blue to include the trigger. Bolt and actuator are in the white. Buttplate does not appear to be refinished and has some slight scattered light pitting. Both drum and magazines have some light storage corrosion which should clean up. Mechanics are crisp with a very smooth action. Bore is very fine shiny and bright. Wood has some light handling marks and a couple of dings but still very attractive. A great specimen of the iconic Thompson with compensator and dual appeal as both a military and police collector's item. Wish it could talk... 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.
Accessories
1 drum magazine and 3 stick magazines
Model
1921/28 Navy Thompson