According to the included 2012 letter from the Auto-Ordnance Company (of Malibu, California), this 1921 Thompson Sub-Machine Gun is noted in factory records as one of ten shipped to General Harry B. Smith, Adjutant General of the Indiana National Guard, on July 29, 1922. One of the most famous sub-machine 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. Blade front and folding adjustable peep rear sights, with the signature Cutts compensator and cooling fins on the barrel, the model and address markings on the left side of the receiver and the Auto-Ordnance patents and address on the right next to a "JHB" inspection mark, and the trigger group is fitted with a set of fully functional selector and safety switches. The bolt is still fitted with an early "Blish Lock" device, as well as a felt-padded spring steel bolt oiler. Fitted with a Crosby Company stick magazine, a pair of grooved pistol grips, and a detachable shoulder stock. Included with the gun is an extra Crosby stick magazine, two modern production 50-round "L" configuration drum magazines with boxes, three Auto-Ordnance Thompson catalogs, 1928M1 manual, and some loose related papers.

Fine as completely refinished, with 98% of the high polish blue, showing some minor spots of pitting and dings beneath the finish, along with some light handling marks. The stock shows a mended break at the wrist, with a section glued and wood pinned back in place, and the wood shows some mild dings and wear overall. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This item is restricted as 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 478.