April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2019
Really fine condition and visible numbers matching 1941 manufactured classic German machine gun marked "fxo 41" on end cap with numerous Nazi proof marks throughout. Receiver exhibits both “cos” and "WaA44" (Merzwerke) and eagle over “37” proofs indicating Mertzwerke supplied the receiver tube to C.G. Haenel who conducted the final assembly and finish to the weapon. Mertzwerke was a subcontractor for sheet metal parts for many German weapons including the MP40. Serial number is 2539h. Visible numbers appear matching throughout including the bolt when viewed through the charging handle slot. Eagle over swastika firing proof as well as manufacturer’s code and serial number visible when bolt is in the rear position. Beautiful and clear set of original bolt markings on this MP-40. From the front sight hood to each side of the swing out should loop every number corresponds to the receiver serial number. Barrel resting bar is of an unusually brown Bakelite with original casting number on bottom. Two original 32 round magazines are included with this gun. The MP40 was designed to be a compact burst fire weapon originally intended for dismounted vehicle and armor troops but as time passed it was fielded in ever increasing numbers to all unit formations. It was a highly prized souvenir for American soldiers to bring home. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is fine to extremely fine original blue finish thinning in places to a grey or brown patina in places, particularly at the high edges and on the swing out shoulder loop. Bakelite has some light handling marks. Bore is extremely fine, shiny and bright. Bolt face is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp. This is a fully automatic only machine gun. An especially nice all-matching German World War II collectible with just honest vintage wear, seldom seen with such clear and unquestionably original proofmarks. Worthy of even the most advanced collection. 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 AND RELIC.