Need information on a Berthier MLE 1907-15 receiver marked Établissement Continsouza

[tdennis]

I own a 8mm Lebel that is marked on the receiver in nice bold script ET es Continsouza MLE 1907-15. On the root/base of the straight bolt it has the letter L in a circle. Also what may be a worn script T followed by and H also in script, then serial number 29793. I see no other marking on any of the metal but I did not remove any of the wood.

This was part of my wife's father's military gun collection but no information was provided. I am trying to find out what it is and an approximate value for insurance purposes. The rifle appears to be in as issued condition. I know that my father-in-law bought several rifles via the NRA back in the late 50's and 60's prior to the 68 gun control act. Wife and I were married in 1966 and he owned this rifle prior to our marriage.

What little I have found out about it seems to indicate that only the receiver was made by Établissement Continsouza and that this in addition to it still being a MLE 1907-15 and not converted to a MDL-16 makes it more desirable to a collector of French military firearms.

Appreciate any information you might be able to provide.
Thanks
Tdennis
Central VA

Information

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