Antique Firearm Serial Numbers

Federal law does not include 'antique firearms' as firearms for purposes of 18 USC 922.

Antique Gun Serial Numbers
Firearm Serial Search

For one well-known dealer, I counted nine 1894's currently being advertised as 'antique' when in fact, they are 'modern'-one of those is even above 142,000 serial number. I didn't even look at the other models he has for sale, but I'm sure there are more on his website that are being falsely peddled and transferred illegally as 'antiques.' Antique Firearms defined by ATF Rules: “any firearm manufactured in or before 1898”. Antiques can be sold, shipped, and collected without any paperwork or transfer costs. Firearms of WWI and WWII need CC&R or FFL to transfer. Offering free evaluations of collections if you are interested in selling. We ship to Europe. A C&R license allows you to buy and sell antique firearms, including any firearm that is at least 50 years old or that has historical or collectible significance. Once you get your license, you must keep records of each firearm you buy or sell, including the make, model, serial number, and type of firearm. Following World War II, collecting firearms became a popular trend, especially antique cartridge firearms. This field of collecting, and collecting American arms in particular, has become one of the fastest growing since the 1950s. Overall, prices for antique guns have risen over time due to the lack of supply. Company has produced a wide variety of firearms during its existence. In 1894, the firm became 'Iver Johnson's Arms & Cycle Works.' It is perhaps best known as a major manufacturer of inexpensive but serviceable pocket-size revolvers in.22 rimfire,.32 S&W, and.38 S&W calibers, serving the same sizable market niche as Hopkins & Allen.

California law is less forgiving; while transfer may be made without using an FFL, 'antique firearms' ARE firearms for purposes of transfer to and possession by felons, and for purposes of carry and possession by persons who are not disabled by law.

Definition

Generically a weapon made in or before 1898

CA Penal Code routinely defines Antique Firearm as those that are defined in USC 18, Sec 921(a)(16). In at least one place, CA Penal Code defines Antique Firearm as 'made prior to January 1, 1899'. In one area, dealing with 'destructive devices', it defines it according to [Section 479.11 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations.] [1]

[USC 18, Sec. 921(a)(16)][2] reads: