ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Morphy's September Firearms & Militaria Auction Features Gangster History

market-auction · 2026-08-26

Morphy's three-day Firearms & Militaria auction, scheduled for September 15-17, will offer nearly 1,200 lots, including a Colt 1921 Thompson machine gun that wounded gangster Charles 'Pretty Boy' Floyd in 1932. The gun, estimated at $100,000-$180,000, is a top lot. Also featured is a Colt Single Action Army revolver documented to a member of General George A. Custer's 7th Cavalry. The auction highlights American gangster and military history.

Key facts

  • Morphy's Firearms & Militaria auction runs September 15-17.
  • Nearly 1,200 lots are up for bid.
  • Colt 1921 Thompson machine gun used to wound 'Pretty Boy' Floyd is featured.
  • Pre-sale estimate for the Thompson is $100,000-$180,000.
  • Floyd was wounded on April 9, 1932, during a confrontation with law enforcement.
  • Floyd fatally shot Oklahoma Sheriff Ervin Kelly with an M1911 pistol.
  • The Thompson is considered a top lot candidate.
  • A Colt Single Action Army revolver with documentation to a 7th Cavalry member is also included.

Entities

Institutions

  • Morphy's

Sources