September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
Born in 1900, George Grebey moved to New Haven, Connecticut, and was occupied as a tool maker, possibly with some association with Winchester; however, by the beginning of World War II, he was employed as a machinist at the Naval Torpedo Station in Newport, Rhode Island. The butt of this unusual prototype is hand-stamped "DESIGNED-MADE BY / GEORGE F. GREBEY / SEPT. 1 1943" and was likely built seeking a government contract for paratrooper or other special use. Remaining in the white and in an overall incomplete state, this gas operated handgun is chambered in .30 carbine and designed to use M1 carbine magazines. It is provided with simple iron sights: a tall blade front and a U-notch rear. The grips are 2-piece plain walnut. The pistol is housed in a period felt lined fitted wood case with various spare parts or tools. Also included are several of Grebey's blueprints for a long arm version, a file of research, and correspondence compiled by Larry Ruth. It is pictured on pages 1629 and 1630 of Ruth's "War Baby III". CONDITION: Very good overall, remaining bright with some minor cleaned pinprick oxidation. Grips show evidence of handling. The bolt was absent when the prototype was acquired. Case has expected wear but displays very well. A rare opportunity for the discerning 20th-century arms collector to acquire a well-known, one-of-a-kind WWII prototype pistol. PROVENANCE: Larry Ruth Collection
Paperwork
Research, Documentation, Blueprints