Valuation Guides Machine Guns M1 Thompson
Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: February 17, 2026
The M1 Thompson was a wartime simplification of earlier Thompson designs, offering easier production while maintaining battlefield reliability in World War II.
Curious about how much your M1 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.
Introduced as a cost-effective alternative to the 1928A1, the M1 Thompson featured simplified internals and removed features like the Blish lock and drum magazine capability. Furthermore, the complicated top-mounted actuator was replaced with a simplified side-mounted charging handle. The 1928A1 Lyman rear sights assembly was replaced with a simple stamped L-shaped peep sight and the Cuts compensator and barrel fins were eliminated. Although these revisions would drastically reduce the cost and time of production, the M1 Thompson remained a formidable force on the battlefield
Origin
United States
Manufacturer
Auto-Ordnance (Bridgeport, CT), Auto-Ordnance (West Hurley, NY), Savage Arms
Caliber
.45 ACP
Rate of Fire
600–700 rounds/min
Notable Uses
WWII U.S. infantry, paratroopers
Transferable M1 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 $17,000 to $28,000, depending on configuration and provenance.
Post-War Commercial Examples (West Hurley)
Estimated Value: $18,000 – $22,000
Registered Dewats Reactivated
Estimated Value: $22,000 – $26,000
Auto-Ordnance or Savage Military-Issue (C&R Eligible)
Estimated Value: $28,000 – $34,000
Market values reviewed by Chris Wing, Lead Firearms Valuation Specialist
Originality:
Transferable M1 Thompsons with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.
Condition:
Clean, well-maintained M1 Thompson machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.
Historical Markings / Provenance:
If there are markings or provenance that link your M1 Thompson to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.
Restoration:
Whether your M1 Thompson has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.
Transfer Status:
Transferrable M1 Thompsons will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.
Receiver Type & Build Origin:
M1 Thompsons built on original receivers typically hold more value than rewelds or aftermarket builds.
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