I have an interest in WWII history and have collected good examples of some of the infantry US firearms used in the conflict... 1911A1 (Colt 1944), Garand (Springfield 1943), and a Stevens Arms 520-30 trench gun. My uncle recently reached out to me with a veteran return, Ithaca made 1911A1 he received from a good friend's estate. He doesn't like pistols (has never even fired one) but knew of my interest in the WWII period and offered it to me.
The fly in the ointment is the serial number on the gun. I can read it, but an obvious attempt was made in the distant past to deface it.
I'm located in the United States and after doing a little bit of internet research, I see advice along the following lines:
1) Run, don't walk. Any defaced serial number is a Federal crime and you should just find a deep river to make its final resting place.
2) Contact the ATF. Chances are they will take it and destroy it, but you should only get a slap on the wrist if you go to them first... and just maybe there is a process that would let you keep it if you can manage to jump through the hoops.
3) Pre 1968 serial numbers were optional and this presents a loop hole. Many WWII vets brought home souvenirs and many removed the serial number. Not a big deal if you don't try and sell it to anyone.
4) If you can read the serial number, it's not really defaced. Carry on with a clean conscience.
I'm hoping the experts on this forum can help me pick the right option.
Thanks!
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