greek return serial numbers

[John Beard]

Thank you Mr. Beard.

How much of a detraction would be an 03 with a Greek pinned floorplate since they are modified US parts? Would it be similar to an 03 receiver drilled and tapped for a lyman sight?

Thanks
BEAR

In coming years, I do not believe the Greek rifles with "B" pinned floorplates will suffer much detraction in value. The Greek rifles are a well-documented and accepted collection venue within themselves. The rifles have all U.S. parts and, in the long run, should have value competitive with comparable U.S. overhauled rifles.

A drilled and tapped rifle, on the other hand, will never recover much value.

J.B.

[BEAR]

My grateful thanks to Mr. Beard, Rick, PhillipM and Chris W. for your time and replies. After getting over my initial shock at finding out that I had purchased a Greek return 03, I have had my faith restored by your comments. It was a feeling akin to finding out that your newly purchased Rolex has "Made in China" stamped on the back (well, maybe not THAT bad a feeling). At least this rifle doesn't have "Made in China" stamped on the receiver.

BEAR

[John Beard]

Years ago, Lend/Lease or British Remington M1903 rifles with NZ property stamps or red bands were an anathema to collectors. Now they're hot items with premium values. While I do not predict the same for Greek rifles (because there's too many of them and they're not in great condition), the same value-holding principle will apply.

J.B.

[Rick the Librarian]

To me, perhaps a better comparison were the so-called "Blue Sky" imports of the 1980s, at least as far as condition. Like them, I think you judge each rifle on its individual merits or problems.

[Chris W.]

Don't know about the value on mine, but I bought it as a shooter. It looked freshly rebuilt with a almost unfired barrel. Parkerizing was fresh and unblemished, no wear on metal surfaces. wood was a little rough, of course the numbers didn't match, but otherwise, a great rifle. If I had a complaint, it was only the preservation grease was so thick, and long term, think it preserved it well. I guess it would come down to what you paid for it and what you are looking to get out of it. ( shooter or collector ) When I got mine from the CMP it was $400 to my door. I think I got my monies worth.
Chris