Originally manufactured by Colt as a Model 1921 Thompson SMG, one of a number stuck in inventory due to sluggish sales; while today the Thompson is recognized as an American classic and one of the all-time finest "heavy metal" SMGs, at the time it was a novel, untested and expensive weapon, and few were willing to roll the dice. The U.S. Marine Corps was an early adopter, and the firm attempted to capitalize on the connection by adding "U.S. NAVY" markings to their 1921s, updating the features based on USMC feedback, and overstamping the "1921" to "1928" to match their newer model. According to Herigstad's "Colt Thompson Submachine Gun Serial Numbers and Histories" (page 984), this particular Thompson was shipped to the Police Department of Mexico, Missouri on an unspecified date. Originally named New Mexico, Mexico was founded in 1836, serving settlers migrating to the then-Republic of Texas, and has been known as "The Fire Brick Capital of the World" and "The Saddle Horse Capital of the World" for two of their major products, refractory bricks (including ones used in the construction of Cape Canaveral) and American Saddlebred horses. Blade front sight on the Cutts-marked compensator and a folding Lyman rear sight, showing the signature cooling fins on the barrel, beautiful walnut dual pistol grips and quick-detachable buttstock with a small "anchor" on the front. The left side of the receiver has the aforementioned "U.S. NAVY" model markings ahead of the 5-line address and caliber markings, with the Thompson "bullet" logo on top and the Auto-Ordnance address and 6-line patent markings on the right. The trigger group is numbered to match the receiver on the underside, with separate selector ("FULL/AUTO" and "SINGLE") and safety ("FIRE" and "SAFE") levers. The internals are of the 1928 pattern, with the reduced spring and spring guide and correspondingly heavier bolt assembly, with brass Blish Lock and felt padded oiler. Included with the Thompson is a 50-round "L" drum magazine, four 20-round stick magazines, brass cleaning rod, and a Books Trunk Company leatherette transport case.

Very fine, with 85% plus original high polish blue finish, showing light edge wear and handling marks. The wood is in fine condition, with light dings and scratches. The case shows wear and tear appropriate to age and use. 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.