Auto-Ordnance WWII Pacific Theatre Commemorative Thompson .45ACP Rifle

SOLD FOR: $1600

WOA#: WY230921JM001

Make: Auto-Ordnance

Model: World War II Commemorative Thompson

Serial Number: KA3923

Year of Manufacture: Modern

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Semi-Automatic

Markings:  The left side of the receiver is marked, “ISSUED BY THE AMERICAN HISTORICAL FOUNDATION RICHMOND, VIRGINIA AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION WEST HURLEY, NEW YORK U.S.A. KA3923 FIRE SAFE” and PT0-041”.  The right side of the receiver is marked, “IN HONOR OF WORLD WAR II / 1941 1945 / PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS” with Lady Victory and Marines on an island engraved.  Both sides of the stock have a Red Pacific Theater Emblem of a V with morse code underneath (V …- for Victory).  The muzzle device is marked with the Auto-Ordnance trademark.  The right side of the grip is marked “IN HONOR OF VICTORY IN THE PACIFIC 12 AUGUST 1945 / LET US PRAY THAT PEACE BE NOW RESTORED”.

Barrel Length: 16.5” Finned / 1:16 right hand twist.  18.5 with Cutts compensator

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade front sight with a rear ladder sight

Stock Configuration & Condition: The fixed buttstock, pistol grip, and foregrip are walnut wood with smooth polished surfaces. The receiver is blued steel. The LOP is 16.75“ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in Excellent overall condition. There are a few small scratches on the buttstock. The bottom of the handguard has a few small nicks and compression marks.

Magazine Quantity & Condition:   1x 20rd Auto Ordnance magazine in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Gold Accents, Blued

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 99% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows some light scratches.  The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.  This rifle has been stored for most of its life in its display case.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:  This rifle comes with its box magazine, leather sling, and its commemorative wooden display case with clear window.  There is light storage wear on the accessories and box There are light scratches on the clear plexiglass.  Please see photos.

Our Assessment: Handling the Limited Edition World War II Tribute Thompson by Auto-Ordnance is an experience in itself—a journey back in time to one of the most pivotal periods in world history. It isn’t merely a firearm; it’s a beautifully crafted monument to the Americans who served in both the European and Pacific Theaters during World War II. The attention to detail is evident, from the gleaming, mirror-polished steel to the 24-Karat Gold plated elements, which include the rear sight and actuator knob. This Thompson doesn’t just sit in your hands; it makes a statement, weighing in at a solid twelve pounds and demanding a two-handed grip—echoing its legendary status as a close-combat weapon during the war.

What distinguishes this particular edition even further are the deep etchings in bas relief, gilded in gold, as well as its deluxe walnut stocks which are impeccably finished to a high gloss and adorned with fired-enamel cloisonnés. The symbols and inscriptions on the gun serve as an intricate storyboard of WWII, commemorating the years of the war, the theater of operations, and medals associated with the conflict. Even the trigger and sling swivels are mirror-polished and plated in 24-Karat Gold, adhering to a Jewelers-Grade Heavy thickness, ensuring both beauty and durability.

This piece is not just a collector’s item but a limited edition, with only 500 units meticulously gunsmithed for each theater of operations. Each firearm bears its own individual Limited Edition Registry Number, prefixed by “ETO” or “PTO,” depending on the theater it commemorates.  For the fortunate few who own one, this Thompson is not just a showpiece but a resonant token of remembrance, capturing the spirit of a time, a people, and a cause that changed the world.  Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.