May 12-14, 2026 Firearms & Militaria

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Bidding

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/12/2026

This gun comes with a signed letter from Sydney Stembridge that this gun was used onscreen for the films, “For Whom the Bell Tolls” starring Gary Cooper, and also, “The Sand Pebbles” starring Steve McQueen. There were also numerous other film productions this gun was used in, but certainly the above were the most prominent. No Steve McQueen film aficionado will ever forget, “Holman” brandishing this very same Browning Automatic Rifle with such effect in the closing scenes. This gun is in original World War 1 configuration, as refurbished and refinished as directed by the consignor to put it into top condition. This is a Marlin Rockwell manufactured BAR model 1918 including correct WW1 era style flash hider as well as outstanding checkered wooden forend and wood buttstock. Barrel marked “M” (for Marlin) with “8-18” date and ordnance bomb proofmarks. Correct first model gas regulator on this rifle. One 20 round magazine also included with this lot. Gun retains its semi-auto operational feature as originally fielded for WW1. This is a select-fire machine gun. When selector is in the forward position the rifle fires semi-automatic only and in the middle position fully automatic. The Browning automatic rifle was designed to provide “walking fire” while on the advance. This concept meant to maximize the attack firepower and allow for both automatic suppressive fire on an objective as well as aimed semi-automatic fire from the shoulder. This is the B.A.R. that this cataloger saw on film which caused him to move his Father to purchase one. PROVENANCE: Letter from Sydney Stembridge of Stembridge Gun Rentals attesting to the film history of this gun, by serial number. This gun would have been a 1934 registration while the multi-generational Stembridge’s were renting guns to film companies as, “The Paramount Gun Room”. Later, this business became, “Stembridge Gun Rentals”. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is near excellent lustrous blue finish as professionally and faithfully refinished. Markings are very clear. Wood is near excellent exhibiting some light handling marks with slight 1 3/4" grain checks at rear of both sides of checkered fore-end. Bore is near excellent shiny and bright with some light frosting in the grooves. Mechanics are crisp. This is an extremely attractive BAR in addition to its film provenance and would be a suitable centerpiece of any firearms collection. Absolutely fabulous gun for the U.S. military, action film, or fan of the notable actors who carried this gun on screen. 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.

ADDENDUM: A scan of the Certificate of Authenticity has been uploaded.

Bidding Current Bidding Minimum Bid: $50,000.00 Final prices include buyers premium: Estimate: $100,000 - $150,000 Number Bids: 5	Auction closed on Thursday, May 14, 2026.

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