When did import stamping start in the U.S.?

plygreendevil · 02-19-2009, 11:30 AM

Could anyone give me a brief summary of import stamping? My 1940 Luger has no import stamps, which I know is a good thing. How much does import stamping effect value?

Thanks

MFC · 02-20-2009, 12:42 AM

Import stamping began in the late 1800's. All Imports into the US must have the country of origin. Most of the guns that are not import stamped were GI bring backs or they mailed it to themselves, WWI and WWII. Guns made for US import and stamped at the factory are correct and the value is not affected. Import stamps applied after they left the factory can decrease the value as much as half. I guess it all depends on how rare/desirable it is also.

02-19-2009, 11:30 AM	#1
plygreendevil New User Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Outside Boston Posts: 4 Thanks: 1 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	When did import stamping start in the U.S.? Could anyone give me a brief summary of import stamping? My 1940 Luger has no import stamps, which I know is a good thing. How much does import stamping effect value? Thanks

02-20-2009, 12:42 AM	#2
MFC User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Louisiana Posts: 1,237 Thanks: 183 Thanked 281 Times in 162 Posts	Import stamping began in the late 1800's. All Imports into the US must have the country of origin. Most of the guns that are not import stamped were GI bring backs or they mailed it to themselves, WWI and WWII. Guns made for US import and stamped at the factory are correct and the value is not affected. Import stamps applied after they left the factory can decrease the value as much as half. I guess it all depends on how rare/desirable it is also. __________________ Mike C.