September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
There is perhaps no firearms designer so synonymous with World War II than John Garand, whose M1 Garand rifle was fielded en masse by American forces and contributed greatly to Allied victory. His genius continued into the American light rifle trials in 1941, developing 2 generations of innovative prototypes for Springfield Armory. Garand's two designs were not selected. This lot includes several important relics from Garand's trial carbines, the first are parts from the light rifle prototype: a crinkle painted butt plate and the parkerized rear sight aperture. Lot also includes an original technical drawing of the second prototype carbine cut away from the side view to display the internals. Drawing is unsigned but does appear to be an original draft. Measures approximately 24 - 1/2" x 42". Drawing and parts were obtained from the estate of John Garand after his passing and are documented by included 2003 dated certificates of authenticity signed by Richard Garand and Scott Duff. Photocopies of the light rifle patents as well as a photograph of John Garand are also included. CONDITION: Good. Drawing has an overall cream color with areas of discoloration and staining, as well as a few minor perforations and edgewear. Butt plate retains nearly all of its painted black crinkle finish with a few minor oxidation spots. Sight is likewise fine. An outstanding opportunity to acquire tangible remnants of John Garand's design genius that would make a very attractive display. PROVENANCE: Larry Ruth Collection