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Rare 1st Naval Contract Papa Nambu Semi-Automatic Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:900.00 USD Estimated At:1,800.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Rare 1st Naval Contract Papa Nambu Semi-Automatic Pistol
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
Rare Japanese 1st Naval Contract Papa Nambu Semi-Automatic Pistol, by Tokyo Gas & Electric, #621, 8mm, 4.7'' barrel, blue finish, straw small parts, checkered walnut grips, and correct non-matching aluminum based magazine. Produced by the Tokyo Gas & Electric Co. from 1909 to 1928, with an estimated production of 5700. It is interesting to note that on Sept. 10, 1909, the Imperial Navy officially adopted the Papa Nambu, primarily as a replacement for the revolvers and Broomhandles used by the Japanese Marines. The Navy called its new automatic pistol the ''Army Type'', and the Army, which never adopted it, called it the ''Navy Handgun''. The Naval markings consist of a lightly stamped anchor with a curved lower arm and rounded crown (the first and earliest style marking used by the Imperial Navy). Condition is excellent retaining approx. 92% thinning and toning blue with most of the losses at muzzle and high edges of upper frame due to holster wear, and some thinning to top portion of barrel. Front and backstrap have toned dark with light pitting to backstrap; somewhat more pronounced to grip safety. Of additional interest is evidence of a factory filled holster/stock cutout which is sometimes found on these early Navy Contract pistols. Grips show minor flattening. Action remains crisp, bore is excellent. Magazine shows flakes and losses to external nickel plating. A scarce and early variation by a desirable manufacturer. Est.: $1,800-$2,500. (C&R)