No4 Mk1* Longbranch 1943 help ...

[Stan Rideout]

I am looking for some information on a LeeEnfield. It is a No4 Mk1* Longbranch 1943. It is stamped RCAF on the butt and on the receiver. It is in very good condition and looks to be very little fired if ever. There is no brass marking on the face of the bolt and the riffling is sharp and bright. Is it possible it was never used or used very little. Ser. No. is 27L0085

There are a few minor dents in the wood and a small crack in the rear handguard. Bolt and riffle no's match. Could you estimate a value for me.

Thanks
Stan.

Information

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[Badger]

The RCAF stamp on the butt looks fine to me, but I’ve never seen an example with RCAF scratched (etched?) into the receiver like that. In my opinion and if I were buying it, I would just value it as a standard Long Branch 1943 No.4 Mk1 and based upon condition, perhaps put a value on it of $400 - $450 and maybe $500 if the RCAF stamp is significant and really important to your overall collecting needs.

Hope this helps…

Regards,
Badger

[Stan Rideout]

In better light the RCAF markings on the receiver are stamped and not etched.

[stencollector]

One of these just sold at the Bud Haynes auction (1943 serial 35L6264). It went for somewhere between $650 to $800 or even a bit higher if I recall. The auction hasn't posted their sale prices yet, but in a few days, when they do, check out item 216-E-29.

I was surprised it went so high, but as with all milsurps/auctions, if two guys just gotta have it, then the regular prices are meaningless.