May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/8/2024
Fine condition matching serial number 3871 Thompson "C" drum in correct original dull matte finish. Drum is marked "AUTO-ORDNANCE CORP, NEW YORK N.Y., U.S.A. PATENTED JULY 27 1920 DEC 7 1920 “NO 3871" on main body with matching numbered cover. Original nickel rotor inside. PROVENANCE: From the personal and advanced collection of Dr. Jim Watson of Scottsdale, Arizona. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish of drum is fine original dull blue finish thinning to a gray patina at the high edges with some brown patina in places. Nickel rotor and interior of drum, showing faint little round rings of patina, indicating this drum was loaded and functioned. Survivability of these original numbered "C" drums was poor since they were sold only with the very first orders, and were not popular due to their weight when fully loaded. Today matching numbered original "C" drums are a very rare and sought after collectors items for Thompson enthusiast. A wonderful find for the advanced Thompson machine gun collector. JWK 2024-05-083.