Opinions on this No. 5 Mk. 1

[clarkmilitaria]

Hello,

I have an opportunity to buy a No. 5 Mk. 1, and although I only have two photos (I asked for more), I have some information. It has matching numbers, import marked on the barrel, FMP (Federal Malay Police?) marked on the wrist, and dated 4/46, ROF arsenal. Couple questions: Does the FMP mark diminish the value? Are there any specific photos I should ask for besides the serial numbers to prove that they match? This one has a price of $335 to me, does that sound like a good price? Thanks,
Jim

Information

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[Peter Laidler]

Federation of Malaya Police. Shows its history in my opinion as we've been discussing in another thread very recently. Same as workshop marks on the butt

[Amatikulu]

Hello,

I have an opportunity to buy a No. 5 Mk. 1, and although I only have two photos (I asked for more), I have some information. It has matching numbers, import marked on the barrel, FMP (Federal Malay Police?) marked on the wrist, and dated 4/46, ROF arsenal. Couple questions: Does the FMP mark diminish the value? Are there any specific photos I should ask for besides the serial numbers to prove that they match? This one has a price of $335 to me, does that sound like a good price? Thanks,
Jim

The FMP mark does not diminish its value, and in some cases may add value to a collector as it has some provenance.

The bolt and receiver serial numbers are the most important numbers to match, but serial numbers are often found on the magazine and forestock. If there are serial numbers there, it is best if they all match, I'd ask for photos of all markings.

Generally, $335 in the USA could be a good price for the rifle if it is matching and is in good condition.

[HOOKED ON HISTORY]

Nice looking rifle seems comparable to the one I just picked up for a similar price. I can see the number 5 mark 1 in the reciever picture. Som better shots of the litening cuts on the reciever might bee good and perhaps a picture of the litened bolt handle and 800 meter sight. Though no expert I agree on the value of the provenance. I really like this unsuual weapon and feel lucly to have obtained mine.

[Devious6]

I bought my No.5 last month - all matching (bolt, receiver, forestock) except for magazine anc with pre-68 import mark - cost was $385. Mine has a very clean bore and barrel - assuming similar condition you have a great price.

[clarkmilitaria]

If I bought this I might try to resell it for a profit, but if they can still be had for $385, then, after adding shipping and FFL fees, it might not be worth it to me.

[HOOKED ON HISTORY]

If I bought this I might try to resell it for a profit, but if they can still be had for $385, then, after adding shipping and FFL fees, it might not be worth it to me.

I looked at some of the gun auction sites after my purchase and $385 does not seem to high but if you are going to flip it you may be correct about the final price. It would squeeze the margin a bit.
I think if you buy it you might not be inclined to sell it. Great little gun.

[clarkmilitaria]

I'll most likely be going to the OGCA show tomorrow, so that will be a good opportunity to look around and hopefully find some comparable prices. Some I have found on the internet seem to be extremely overpriced, but based on my research, the average selling prices appear to be $400-$500. Thanks for the input everyone.

Edit: just got this information from the seller:

1) Excellent, bright bore.
2) All the numbers match-bolt, receiver & wood.
3) You can see in the photo on my website and the photos I sent that the wood has dings
4) The mag is unnumbered
5) Sight is graduated to 800 yards.
6) The rifle is all matching
6) There is some pitting under the handguard.

I do trust him, I have bought from him before and have been satisfied, so I would not really need photos of the serial numbers.

[Devious6]

I'd jump on it. It's rare to find one under $400 on Gunbroker - and even more rare to find one that is matching for that price.

[clarkmilitaria]

At the OGCA show yesterday, I saw several no. 5's comparable to mine, ranging from $350 to $470. I talked to the seller of one, who said that the FMP mark actually would decrease value, because a collector is looking for original British markings only.