September 9, 10, & 11, 2025 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/9/2025
One of Dolf’s favorites was this Browning model 1917 machine gun as manufactured by "N.E. WESTINGHOUSE CO." with U.S. military proof and inspector’s initials “WEW” on the right sideplate. Like almost all of these guns, this one has been retrofitted with a reinforcement plate at the bottom of the receiver and had, “A1” added to the model designation on the sideplate and “RA-P” at forward edge of this sideplate incidental to this upgrade. This specimen has also been fitted with the solid pistol grip backplate, and includes an original 1940 manufactured Rock Island Arsenal 1917A1 tripod with it, as well as steel water can, wooden ammo box, steam hose, hose carrier and original Clinometer. This gun has attractive bronze trunnion and forward end cap, and has been fitted with a steel rear cap at the trunnion, probably incidental to WWII service. Bolt is this gun is from the WWII era. The original water fill cap is present, but water drain cap, cork and chain are not present. Electronic NFA registry indicates “WINCHESTER” as the manufacturer. This can be requested correction to the BATF if the buyer desires. PROVENANCE: From the Estate collection of Dolf L. Goldsmith. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine dull arsenal refinish upon retrofit for WW2 with some loss of finish at the high edges, with a more lustrous finish on the muzzle attachment. There is a repaired 3/8” diameter spot about 4 - 1/2" forward of the rear cap at the bottom of the water jacket. No dings or dents to the water jacket. Bore is extremely fine with strong rifling, mostly shiny, getting a bit darker in the grooves towards the muzzle. Bolt face extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp and extremely smooth. This is a full-auto only machine gun. Tripod is in near excellent condition with appropriate green painted surface, and retains original identification medallion. Wooden ammo box also in fine condition except for leather carrying strap which has parted. Clinometer is near excellent as is the steam hose and its canvas carrier. One thing worth noting is that Dolf Goldsmith kept his guns in good shooting condition and he shot them. There are numerous videos in private hands of Dolf shooting this very 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 & RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2025-09-169.
Caliber/Bore
.30-06 Springfield
Manufacturer
N.E. Westinghouse