November 15 & 16, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/16/2022
Exceptional, original World War II British Bren machine gun marked on left side receiver "Mk I" with 1942 date and broad arrow proof as well as “BNP” on receiver at barrel attachment point with “44” mark barrel latch. Barrel also dated 1944, numbered “2270, MK 3,” Canadian bipod on this gun. Buttstock and handgrip also have broad barrel proof with manufacturer’s code marked “S111” indicating manufacture by F Tibbenham from the South of England. Rear sling swivel on right side of buttstock is of Mk II configuration, however drum site and handle are of Mk I configuration. Included in this lot is one original metal box with 10 original 30-round magazines. Electronic NFA registry indicates “BREN” as the manufacturer. PROVENANCE: From the collection of esteemed NFA firearms enthusiast and collector J. R. Moody. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine original blue finish, thinning to a gray patina, particularly at the high edges, with near excellent wood, clear broad arrow and manufacturer’s markings on buttstock and pistol grip. Broad arrow visible on numerous parts which also have British nitro proofs (BNP). Bore is near excellent, shiny, and bright. Bolt face is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp. This is a select-fire machine gun. Machine gun enthusiasts generally agree that the BREN gun is the best of the general-purpose rifle caliber machine guns of World War II. Registered Curio & Relic eligible specimens are scarce within the United States, Mk I models particularly so. This is a rare opportunity for the discerning collector to obtain a fine specimen of this highly sought machine gun. 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 ELIGIBLE. JWK 2022-11-79.
Accessories
Case of magazines, Transit Case