Valuation Guides Machine Guns 1921 Thompson

Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: February 17, 2026

How Much is My 1921 Thompson Worth?

The 1921 Thompson is the original commercial production model of the infamous 'Tommy Gun.' Produced by Colt for Auto-Ordnance, these early submachine guns are some of the most collectible transferable machine guns on the market.

Curious about how much your 1921 Thompson sub machine gun is worth? Whether you’re looking to sell or simply understand current pricing, we’ll help you assess the market value of your firearm.

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About the 1921 Thompson

Designed by retired US Army general John T. Thompson, the Model of 1921 was the first commercially available version of the Thompson submachine gun. Its distinctive vertical foregrip, drum magazine, high rate of fire, and role in American organized crime have made it legendary. The original design featured the John Blish designed “Blish Lock”, which was intended to control the cyclic rate and reduce any adverse effects caused by friction inside the firearm. It was later determined that the Blish Lock really did nothing more than add cost and complexity to the design. Being the first widely available adaptation of the Thompson hierarchy of submachine guns, the Model 1921 Thompson is prized amongst collectors.

Origin

United States

Manufacturer

Colt (for Auto-Ordnance)

Caliber

.45 ACP

Rate of Fire

800–850 rounds/min

Notable Uses

Prohibition-era law enforcement, organized crime

1921 Thompson Machine Gun Values & Variants

Transferable 1921 Thompson sub machine guns are highly sought after by NFA collectors and enthusiasts. Value is influenced by originality, condition, variant type and any unique historical markings. Most examples on the market range from $18,000 to $50,000, depending on configuration and provenance.

Common Variants & Value Ranges

  • 1921 Thompson (West Hurley)

    Estimated Value: $18,000 – $25,000

  • 1921 Thompson (Colt)

    Estimated Value: $35,000 – $50,000

Market values reviewed by Chris Wing, Lead Firearms Valuation Specialist

Factors That Influence 1921 Thompson Values

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Originality:

Transferable 1921 Thompsons with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.

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Condition:

Clean, well-maintained 1921 Thompson machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.

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Historical Markings / Provenance:

If there are markings or provenance that link your 1921 Thompson to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.

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Restoration:

Whether your 1921 Thompson has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.

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Transfer Status:

Transferrable 1921 Thompsons will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.

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Receiver Type & Build Origin:

1921 Thompsons built on original receivers and parts are worth more than their West Hurley commercial counterparts.

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Selling a firearm can be time-consuming and legally complex, especially for machine guns. At webuyguns.com, we streamline the process by purchasing directly from you, saving you time and ensuring a legally compliant, hassle-free transaction. With decades of experience, we provide fair market evaluations and encourage you to compare our offers locally to see the value we bring.

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Frequently asked questions

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our customer support team.

How much is a transferable 1921 Thompson worth in 2026?
In the current 2026 market, transferable 1921 Thompson values range from $18,000 to $50,000.
Why do Colt 1921 Thompsons command a premium?
Rarity and collector demand are the primary drivers. Colt-era production and original markings are highly sought after, especially when the gun retains correct parts, finish and a well documented history.
What factors most affect the value of a 1921 Thompson?
Transferable status is the baseline, then manufacturer, originality, condition and completeness drive pricing. Matching components, original finish, correct furniture and period-correct accessories can increase value when supported by documentation.
Do you buy transferable 1921 Thompson submachine guns?
Yes. WeBuyGuns.com buys transferable machine guns nationwide. Share photos of markings and configuration plus any paperwork details and we can provide a current value range and a purchase offer with clear next steps.
Can I sell a Thompson I inherited?
Yes, if it is legally transferable. Eligibility depends on registration history and paperwork, not just the model name. We can help you understand what you have and outline the compliant path to sell.
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