Shanghai Police Fabrique Nationale FN 1922, .380 ACP Semi-Auto Pistol, C&R

SOLD FOR: $2750

LSB#: 210129DW13

Make: Fabrique Nationale

Model: Browning M1922 Shanghai Police

Serial Number: 256325

Year of Manufacture: 1940-1945

Caliber: .380 A.C.P. (9mm)

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto Pistol with Removable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE HERSTAL BELGIQUE / BROWNING’S PATENT DEPOSE”, with Belgian proof markings . The left side of the frame is marked with Belgian proof markings. The left side of the trigger guard bow is marked with an “A” in a square. The right side of the frame and slide extension are marked “256325”.  The barrel at the port is marked “CAL. 9m/m” and contains Belgian proof markings. The front strap is marked “MG” over Hanzi characters which stand for Hu Gong (Shanghai Public Security Bureau) followed by “775”.

Barrel Length: 4 1/4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded bladed fixed to the top of the slide extension. The rear sight is a “V” notch dovetailed into the top of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered horn panels. The grips show moderate wear with scattered nicks, scuffs, compressions and rubs on the checkering and the smooth borders. The checkering is worn yet present. There are spots of darker discoloration from age and handling. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in about Good-Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 75% of its metal finish. There is very light surface oxidation throughout the frame but most notably on the front strap. There is thinning at the muzzle and the slide extension has turned to patina. There is a bit of thinning at all edges of the slide and the trigger guard. There are scattered tiny nicks and light scratches. The action shows light operational wear. The screw head is tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good-Plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The pistol has a mag disconnect, frame-mounted safety, and a grip safety. We did not fire this handgun. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Our Assessment: This is a rare and interesting piece. This is a 1922 that was given over to the Shanghai Public Safety Bureau from the Gendarmerie Mobile French police division after the French Concession was returned to China. The front strap bears the “GM” as well as the Hanzi character and weapon arsenal number that the Chinese added after acquisition. Good luck and happy bidding!

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of three 8-round magazines and a brown leather holster. The magazines are marked “FN” in oval over “9m/m” on the right side of the body and “GM” (Gendarmerie Mobile), showing moderate operational wear, intact feed lips and a strong spring in about Very Good condition. The holster has scattered wear and verdigris at the base of the buttons with intact stitching, in about Very Good condition.