Gun Collectors Dream Auction #79 Weapons of War
Lot 1434:
Sold for: $800
Description
A vintage military bolt-action short rifle, identified as an FN Model 24/30 Mauser-type, manufactured by FAB. NAT. D’ARMES de GUERRE HERSTAL-BELGIQUE. This example is part of a Haitian contract, marked "ARMEE D’HAITI" on the receiver, and dates to the 1930s. The barrel is marked "CAL. 30-06" and "M24 BELGIUM". The rifle is constructed with a dark-stained wooden stock and blued steel metal components. The receiver bears serial number "3925", while the bolt handle is marked "3425", indicating a mismatched bolt.
This FN Model 24/30 Short Rifle, specifically from the Haitian second contract, features a pistol grip stock without grasping grooves, and an upper handguard that runs from in front of the receiver ring to the upper barrel band. The lower band has a swivel affixed to the bottom, with another swivel at the midpoint of the buttstock. The bolt handle is straight. The buttplate is ribbed, and the rifle is fitted with unique sights, including a rear peep sight and a front sight with a protector copied from the M-1 Garand. Historically, these Model 24/30 Short Rifles were contracted by the Haitian government during the 1930s and were held in reserve for use by the Volontaires de la Securite National under "Papa Doc" Duvalier.
Condition report:
The rifle presents in used condition, typical of a service weapon. The dark-stained wooden stock exhibits scattered dings, scratches, and areas of finish loss consistent with military use. The blued steel metal components show general wear, thinning of the finish, and some minor surface corrosion. The rifle appears structurally complete and intact. The bolt is mismatched to the receiver.
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