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Make: Auto-Ordnance
Model: World War Commemorative Thompson M1927
Serial Number: WW549
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked, “ISSUED BY THE AMERICAN HISTORICAL FOUNDATION RICHMOND, VIRGINIA AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION WEST HURLEY, NEW YORK U.S.A. WW549 FIRE SAFE”. There are also Patent numbers on the left side of the receiver. The right side of the receiver is marked, “WORLD WAR II COMMEMORATIVE THOMPSON EUROPEAN THEATER, PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS, CHINA BURMA INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA LAND OF THE FREE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. The left and right side of the buttstock is marked, “US”. The right side of the pistol grip is marked, “IN HONOR OF WORLD WAR II VICTORY IN LASTING MEMORY OF THOSE WHO SERVED”. The magwell is marked with the Auto-Ordnance trademark. The muzzle device is marked with the Auto-Ordnance trademark.
Barrel Length: 16.5” Finned / 1:16 right hand twist
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade front sight with an open fixed battle rear graduated sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The fixed buttstock, pistol grip, and foregrip are walnut wood with smooth polished surfaces. The receiver is blued steel. The LOP is 17“ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in Very Good overall condition. There are no scratches and scuffs on the buttstock or pistol grip or on the handguard. There is no crazing in the finish.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 20rd Auto Ordnance magazine in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Gold Accents, Clear Coat, Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore.10/10 Bore rating in this writer’s opinion.Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows some light scratches as well as a patch of corrosion on the right side of the lower and some light finish loss around the barrel near the muzzle device. There is some patina buildup on the metal parts of the sling. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Box magazine, Leather Sling, Wooden and Glass Display Case
Our Assessment:
This World War II Commemorative Thompson M1927 is a striking example of a limited-edition tribute rifle, blending the iconic profile of the "Tommy Gun" with modern craftsmanship and commemorative artistry. Manufactured by Auto-Ordnance for The American Historical Foundation, only 750 of these rifles were produced, with 665 configured as semi-automatic long guns like this one. The embellishments are deeply symbolic—gold-plated accents on the compensator, rear sight wings, sling swivels, and trigger; engraved plaques honoring all four major WWII theaters; and patriotic mottos etched into the walnut stock and grip. This rifle exudes pride, reverence, and American industrial flair, making it far more than just a display piece.
Serial number WW549 is housed in its original glass and wood display case, accompanied by a 20-round magazine and leather sling. The condition is outstanding, with 98% of the original finish intact and only minor signs of handling or storage wear, including light scuffing and a small corrosion patch. This example offers not just historical homage, but also a nearly pristine presentation—ideal for collectors of commemorative arms, WWII memorabilia, or Thompson submachine gun variants. With its low production number and visually commanding presence, this is a must-have for the serious collector.