Mauser C96 Semi Automatic Pistol

Rare early 'Broomhandle' Mauser presented to Jas E Sumner

 

Mauser Broomhandle flat side large ring presented to Jas Sumner

We are delighted to include a stunning example of an early Mauser C96 7.63mm Broomhandle semi automatic pistol in our 3rd May Firearms, Antique Arms and Militaria Auction.

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This rare early flat-side variant does not have the characteristic milled-out panels to the sides of the pistol as seen in the Standard Commercial and other later versions of the gun. The pistol also has a large ring hammer which is another early design trait of the first versions of this famous Mauser design. The Broomhandle has matching serial numbers 21869 for a production date of 1899 throughout, it is accompanied by the wood combination shoulder stock and holster which is also numbered 21869.

Mauser Broomhandle flat side large ring presented to Jas Sumner

 

The presentation plaque applied to the wood shoulder stock holster makes this pistol so much more exciting. The brass plaque is engraved 'Presented to Mr Jas. E Sumner by H.R.Da. Willis Esq. and subscribed for by a few friends on the occasion of his leaving home to serve in South Africa March 22nd 1901'. James Sumner (b.1880 d.1969) was obviously quite a highly thought-of individual in the town of Whiston, Merseyside. His leaving for the front was recorded in the local newspaper which describes the sending-off ceremony for Sumner.

‘Mr Jas E Sumner, son of Mr Jas Sumner,  Royal Oak Farm, Whiston, who has joined the Lancashire Hussars, Imperial Yeomanry, and who left Liverpool on Monday morning last on the Bavarian, for service in South Africa, was on Friday evening last the recipient of a handsome present which took the form of a Mauser Rifle (sic). The presentation was made in the large club room of the Green Dragon Hotel, a large number of persons being present to withess the interesting ceremony. Amongst those present were Messrs H R d’A Willis, Halsnead, G H Hallas, David Seddon, George Rogers, R Prescott, Joeseph Berry, Jas Sumner sen, R h Hartley, G Barron, Cameron, Briscoe, T Smith &c.’

Mauser Broomhandle flat side large ring presented to Jas Sumner

The pistol has been in family procession since James Sumner left it behind seeking work in Canada where he later settled. The Mauser is in excellent general condition with most of its original bluing remaining. It is estimated to sell for £3,000 – 5,000 at auction and can be owned on a section 7.1 variation of a firearms licence.

Should you have any items you would like to sell in one of our Firearms, Arms and Militaria sales we would be pleased to hear from you. For more information please contact Chris Large on 01270 623878 or email chris.large@wilson55.com

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