EARLY WWII M97 TRENCH GUN HELP

[Madcap]

I found a M97 Trench Gun for $1700. The seller states it's an early WWII. I'm considering but really need more knowledgeable help.

Partial description:

It has the 6-row heat shield that is typical of early WWII production (i.e. it is not Patent-marked like the WWI guns and is attached using larger rivet heads than the WWI guns). Left side of receiver is marked U.S., without the flaming bomb, as is typical of early WWII production. The barrel is dated 1940 and has the plugged front sight, as is typical of early WWII production trench guns. (NOTE: This is NOT a converted Riot gun--the barrel and magazine tube show no evidence of having had a magazine/barrel band on them. Rather, the barrel was originally intended for a riot gun but was used in trench gun production. This trench gun is metal and wood finish are almost of commercial-production quality--another trait of the early production trench guns. The butt stock is correctly marked with the boxed WB and small ordnance wheel.

I am in contact with the seller and he wants to know what I'd offer. If further photos might help please let me know and I'll request them

I appreciate in advance for any help

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.