June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/28/2018
Gun retains 90% parkerized finish with some light handling marks. All markings are clear. 5-21 dated barrel. 2 bolt finger groove stock has some light dings and handling marks. "DAL" cartouche on left side of stock is worn but visible. Unidentified star marking on the right side of the stock, as well as on the bottom just behind the sling swivel. The front trigger guard screw is a more modern replacement. Has "R.W. Bates/ USN" scratched into either side of the stock at the wrist. A precursory search reveals a "Richard Waller Bates" who was Commander of the Destroyer USS Clark (DD 361) from June 1938-June 1940 and then Captain of the USS Minneapolis (CA 36) from July 1943-May 1944. While this very well could have been his gun, further research is required. It was purchased by the consignor in 1967 according to his notes, although we do not have any other information than that. Equipped with a 1917 dated military leather sling in solid condition. This gun also has a 1917 dated RIA bayonet with parkerized blade and clear markings. Wood grips. USN composite scabbard.