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Tokyo G&E/Tokyo Arsenal 'Papa' Nambu 8mm

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:625.00 USD Estimated At:1,250.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Tokyo G&E/Tokyo Arsenal 'Papa' Nambu 8mm
SN: 1915. Rare variant GTE pistol with Tokyo arsenal symbol on the left frame. Early production Tokyo Gas & Electric Japanese Papa Nambu Semi-Automatic Pistol Produced by the Tokyo Gas and Electric Company under Military contract with the "GTE" marking on the chamber, one piece frame with model markings and serial number, and a pair of Kanji markings on the left side. Fixed front and tangent rear sights, serrated cocking knob, grip safety on the front strap, lanyard swivel, and checkered contoured grips. 4 3/4" round barrel. Matching serial numbers on frame & backside of cocking piece,under back sides of the grip panels, and bolt. Magazine numbered '692", mag has light pitting. Bore has worn rifling with scattered light pitting, grips are very good, blue finish has faded to dull, about 70% with scattered pin-prick pitting throughout. Someone has etched some Japanese symbols on the right frame (?), there are some feint Japanese symbols painted on the left grip panels. This obscure variant has been the subject of some mystery for many years among collectors but has since been categorized and described by Derby & Brown as the “First Variation Tokyo Arsenal Contract”. It is noted as a rare variant with frame without rear milled side panels, stock slot either present or filled (Present on this example), Tokyo Arsenal symbol, and serial number range 700-2816. An interesting example for the dedicated Nambu collector. NRA Condition-Good. C&R Firearm.