'Tommy Gun' Sets Record

BEDFORD, N.H.

:J.C. Devine, Inc auction featured numerous diverse items in their recent auction with Class III firearms remaining a high draw. Proof of that came when an early Colt Model 1921 Thompson Submachine Gun, serial number 114 in caliber .45 ACP came on the block

This firearm had the early fire control markings of "automatic" and "semiautomatic" and the early actuator slot with a square end. The firearm was shipped to W.S. Brown Company in Pennsylvania in April 1921 for delivery to the Aliquippa, Penn., Police Department.

As noted on page 94 of Roger Cox's book The Thompson Submachine Gun, it was subsequently converted to the 21AC configuration with the addition of a type 2 Cutts compensator. The gun had the original stocks with the butt-stock clearly marked with the Remington anchor stamp. This Thompson had the lowest serial number of any the auctioneer has sold, was in magnificent condition and brought $43,125.00 from a New Hampshire collector.

Additional Class III items also fared well. An Armalite AR-18 selective fire assault rifle in 5.56 mm caliber sold for $13,225, while a Model 1928 Thompson submachine gun by Auto-Ordnance of West Hurley sold for $8,050.

Attendance was strong, and the crowd stayed late in order not to miss the many outstanding items. The auction featured some Harpers Ferry muskets. A US Model 1816 flintlock musket went for $2,875. An English Snaphaunce pistol by Israel Segalas of London made $2,875, while an Irish flintlock dueler by Eames of Dublin sold for $2,760.

Civil War firearms remain strong: an inscribed cased Colt 1849 pocket revolver with framed documentation made $4,025, while another in a Civil War era lap desk reached $5,175.

Prices reported include buyer's premium.

For information, 603-673-4967 or www.jcdevine.com.