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English Proofed Ballester-Molina Semi-Automatic Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:750.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 2,000.00 USD
English Proofed Ballester-Molina Semi-Automatic Pistol
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
English Proofed Ballester-Molina Semi-Automatic Pistol, #19217 (grip frame), #B5702 (British Contract serial number), .45 ACP cal., 5'' barrel, blue finish, serrated walnut stock, with one correct magazine. Production started in approx. 1942 and continued until mid-1944. Acquired by the British Government and issued to the SOE (Special Operations Executive) for clandestine operations. Between 8,000-10,000 were purchased by the British. According to a Gun Magazine article, secret agents of the SOE, carrying Ballester-Molina pistols, were dropped behind enemy lines and Occupied Europe, working closely with local resistance forces to make life tough for the Nazis and their collaborators. Others were apparently issued to the members of the British 8th Army fighting in the North African desert. British Contract .45s fall between the 12,000 and 21,000 serial number range. It is further interesting to note that these pistols bear the caliber designation .45, opposed to the much more commonly encountered 11.25mm. Condition is excellent retaining approx. 98%+ dark black/blue. 19-groove grips show very slight wear. Correct magazine stamped ''HA'' inside of diamond on floorplate. Action is crisp, bore is mirror bright. Hard to improve upon. Est.: $1,500-$2,000. (C&R)