Gun Collectors Dream Auction #85 Weapons of War July 18th 10AM CST

Turkish Ankara Gewehr 1888 Commission Bolt Action Rifle 8mm Mauser Antique

This auction ended on July 18, 2026.

Start price: $10

Estimated price: $150 - $250

Buyer's Premium: 12%

Sold for: $225

Description

This is a Turkish-modified German Gewehr 1888 Commission bolt-action rifle, chambered for 8mm Mauser. Originally manufactured between 1888 and 1899, this example was extensively refurbished and updated at the Ankara military arsenal in 1940. The rifle has been sporterized, featuring a shortened forend on the original wood stock and the removal of the original sheet metal barrel shroud, which is a common modification for Turkish-serviced rifles of this type. The metal components exhibit a worn blued finish with significant thinning, silvering, and areas of light surface oxidation on the barrel and receiver. The stock has been fitted with a black Pachmayr White Line rubber recoil pad. Key markings include the Turkish crescent and star crest on the receiver ring above the characters T C, AS FA, ANK ARA, and the date 1940. Verbatim serial number 14173 is visible on the receiver side, barrel, bolt body, and rear sight. The floorplate bears the mismatched serial number 4126 with a lowercase a, and the bolt handle shows multiple stamped numbers including 168 and 891. The action appears to function correctly, though we have not function-tested this firearm or verified the bore diameter for specific 8mm cartridge compatibility. Note – As an antique or black powder firearm, this item does not require a background check.


Condition report:

The metal finish shows heavy wear, with bluing thinned to a grey patina and silvering across the high points and the length of the barrel. Light surface pitting and oxidation are present on the receiver and bolt assembly. The wood stock shows numerous dings, scratches, and pressure marks consistent with military service, along with the visible modification to the forend. The action operates smoothly. The Pachmayr recoil pad remains intact with some light age-related wear to the rubber. The bore was not inspected but the exterior of the muzzle shows significant finish loss and minor nicks.