Browning FN Auto-5 A5 Two Millionth Commemorative Semi Auto Shotgun, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,575.00
LSB#: 241207AA158
Make: Browning
Model: Auto-5 Two Millionth Commemorative Edition
Serial Number: 2,000,000 – 498, of 2500
Year of Manufacture: 1971
Caliber: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Long Recoil-Operated with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM” and with a series of Belgian proof marks. The right side of the barrel is marked “** SPECIAL STEEL – 12 GAUGE – SHELLS 2 3/4″”. The left side of the receiver is marked “Light Twelve” with a gold bust portrait of John M. Browning and his signature in gold. The right side of the receiver is marked “BROWNING / 2,000,000 – 498”. The receiver has intricate scroll engraving. The trigger guard features a gold-plated trigger.
Barrel Length: 28” Vent Rib
Choke: Modified, Fixed
Sights / Optics: The shotgun has a ventilated rib with a white bead front sight. The rib is finely checkered, and the top of the receiver is serrated to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece grade 5 walnut set with a semi-pistol grip, straight comb, black hard rubber FN Browning Automatic buttplate, and checkered forend. The LOP is 14.5” from the front of the trigger to the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The drop at comb is 1.5” The drop at heel is 2.75” The weight is 7lbs 12oz. There are some very light scratches in the buttstock. The finish in the wood really highlights the intricate grain pattern, giving it an almost pearl like appearance. There are no chips or cracks, or any signs of use outside simply picking up the shotgun and admiring it. This shotgun rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: High-Luster Blued with Gold Accents
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no visible erosion in the bore. There is a little plastic fouling in the chamber from the factory test fire. This shotgun appears unfired outside of the factory. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99.9% of its original metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are crisp and clear. The gold-plated trigger shows no loss of finish. The receiver engraving is deep and beautifully executed. The shotgun appears as new, assembled but unfired. Overall, this shotgun rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun comes in its original Browning Two Millionth Commemorative case, Original Commemorative booklet highlighting the history of Browning and the A5 shotgun, having a velvet cover with gold embossed print on the cover, as well as A5 manual in original black envelope. .
Our Assessment: The Browning Auto-5 is one of the most iconic semi-automatic shotguns ever produced, and this Two Millionth Commemorative Edition is an extremely rare and highly desirable collector’s piece. Manufactured in Belgium by FN, this model was made to commemorate the production milestone of Browning’s Auto-5, with only 2,500 units ever produced between 1971 and 1974. This example, numbered 498, is an excellent representation of Browning’s craftsmanship, featuring select Grade 5 walnut, deep engraving, and a stunning high-luster blue finish.
Designed by John Browning in 1898 and patented in 1900, the Auto-5 was the first mass-produced semi-automatic shotgun and remained in production for nearly a century. Known for its distinct “Humpback” profile, the Auto-5 became one of the most successful shotguns ever made, influencing later designs like the Remington Model 11 and the Savage 720. Browning originally presented this design to Winchester, but when negotiations fell through, he brought it to FN, where it became one of the company’s most significant firearms.
This shotgun remains in pristine condition, with no signs of use beyond assembly, and is free from the saltwood issues that affected some Brownings of this era. It comes complete with its original Browning case, and paperwork, further enhancing its value as a collector’s item. Whether you are a dedicated Browning collector, a fan of the Auto-5, or simply someone who appreciates beautifully crafted firearms, this is an exceptional opportunity to own a significant and rare piece of Browning history. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
