Belgium Browning .25 auto

[Lrchops]

From the 40's I think and it is in perfect original mint condition. what would be the value of the pistol! It is pristine!!!

[morrcarr67]

I say around $600 to start. If you have the box too add $100, owner's manual and $50.

[mixwell]

Post a picture ? I doubt it's from the 40's but you can check here (if it's a "baby browning") that I'm thinking of. I have one that's kinda rough looking but I would love to see what yours looks like !

http://www.browning.com/customerservice/dategun/detail.asp?id=6

[Mike A]

"Browning" (meaning the Browning brand of Fabrique Nationale of Belgium) made two different .25 pocket autos, both were called "Baby" at various times in their manufacture.

The first models are identical to the Colt Model 1908 .25 ACP Pocket Model (Different form the 1908 .380 Pocket Model) except for markings. They were often referred to as "Baby Brownings" in the gun press and in advertising. They were made from about 1905 to 1940, I think.

The second model was a much smaller pistol which I think was postwar only. It is VERY small and was made from about 1954 to the late 1960s, I think. It was also made in a lightweight model with two-tone alloy frame; my brother has one of those.

Condition is everything as far as value goes in these guns. And some of both models were made with engraving and plating, which can add considerable value IF it is factory work. They aren't worth much if in low condition (worn bluing, any pitting, etc.). But a pristine "Rennaissance" engraved one can be very valuable.

I'd ask your question on a Browning Collectors board and have a look at a specific Browning collectors book (sneak a look while at Borders or Barnes and Noble) to get a ballpark value. And remember that almost all if not all of these are C&R and can be sold in-state; a Browning book might give you the dates of manufacture by serial number so you can verify if yours is C&R.

Neat little guns; very (pop, pop, pop) popular in the past. I had one of the original prewar "Babys" back a few decades ago and was amazed at how accurate it was in spite of the virtual lack of sights. Hard to shoot tho; I have big hands. My brother's postwar lightweight is REALLY hard to shoot--tiny and weighs nothing. If you have big meaty hands, watch out if you shoot one--they bite at both ends!