Description:

A Browning M1900 semi-automatic pistol, .32-caliber, 3 3/4" barrel, 6 3/4" overall. The left-hand side of the slide bear's the maker's mark "Fabrique Nationale D'Armes de Guerre Herstal Belgique, while the frame below bears an "FN" crest above "Browning's - Patent Brevete S.G.D.G." The left-hand sides of the rear sight, slide and frame bear several Belgian inspector's and proof marks, while the right-hand sides of the sight, slide and frame are each marked with the serial number "684870", indicating manufacture circa 1912-1914. The grips are black gutta percha and bear an FN crest, while the magazine is stamped with the same crest. The pistol retains almost all of its original blued finish, with slight holster wear at the muzzle, although the finish is freckled with oxidation overall, with larger patches to the frame at the grip, and on the magazine. The left-hand grip panel shows small cracks around the screw and the right-hand panel shows a small chip at bottom. The bore contains much grime within the rifling, but the lands and grooves appear to be in good condition, with the crown showing minor wear. The inner workings appear to be filled with storage grease, and the slide spring feels slightly week, but the pistol cocks and fires in good order. NRA grade very good. The pistol originates from the estate of GEORGE BARCLAY RIVES (1875-1935), an American diplomat who served as first secretary of the American Embassy in Vienna, Chargé d'affaires in Brazil, and special assistant to U.S. Ambassador to Germany James W. Gerard during World War I, until diplomatic relations were severed by the entry of the United States into the conflict in 1917. He received the German Red Cross Medal, second and third classes, from Kaiser Wilhelm II for his service regarding English and French prisoners of war during that conflict. Includes a Beltrone and Company COA affirming that the pistol was received from Rives' family, as well as copies of his award citations and other related documents. All firearms purchases must be completed through a Federal Firearms License holder, and the purchaser is responsible for all associated fees. No shipping outside of the United States.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipments are sent via USPS Priority, USPS International Priority, FedEx and DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipments after receipt of payment due to the high volume of packages being shipped.

November 20, 2019 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000