One of the most famous submachine guns in the world, the Thompson SMG rates as one of the truly signature American weapons. While advancements in manufacturing techniques and materials would allow later designs to match or exceed the Thompson's performance, none of them have managed to do the job with the same level of style and craftsmanship. The Thompson, a product of old-school hand craftsmanship, is virtually synonymous with the Roaring 20s and the Great Depression, being found on both sides of the law during the "gangland" era of American history, and also serving on all Allied fronts of World War II, where it stood tall among its more cost-effective stamped steel substitutes. The records in Herigstad's "Colt Thompson Submachine Gun" (page 976) show this 1921 as having been shipped in "1921AC" configuration as a single item to the Morton County Sheriff's Office in Mandan, North Dakota, on September 9, 1930. It is recorded later in the inventory of the Mandan Police Department (date unknown), and the collections of Greg Scott and David Spiwak. Blade front sight on the unmarked Cutts compensator and folding Lyman rear sights, standard 1921 nomenclature and markings on the receiver, with the matching numbered trigger housing fitted with knurled control surfaces and proper "FULL/AUTO"/"SINGLE" and "FIRE"/"SAFE" switch configuration. Internals are proper 1921 pattern, with Blish lock mechanism, heavyweight recoil spring, and spring steel oiler. With dual pistol grips and a quick detach buttstock with a small "anchor" stamp on the front. Provenance: Morton County (North Dakota) Sheriff's Office; Mandan (North Dakota) Police Department; Greg Scott; David Spiwak; Private Collection.

Very fine, with 90% of the original high polish blue finish, showing light scratches, rubbing on the right side of the receiver, and minor handling marks overall. Some spacer material has been added to the recoil spring guide, otherwise internals are standard configuration. Furniture is fine, with scattered scuffing and dents. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479.