Browning Challenger - Value and Interest?

[echo4lima]

A friend has available and is looking for a value or perhaps a buyer for the following firearm.

Browning Challenger, goldplated trigger
Windage and elevation adjustment rear site
Trigger pull from half a pound to 3 pounds
6.5 inch barrel
I have had this since about 1968
Mint condition
Made in Belgium

I am working on getting the s/n to get a bit more specific on the manufacture date. He is original owner, all proper paperwork is done. I have seen it and handled it and it is mint.

Due to the gold plated trigger, I would assume it is a collector, but would like to know for sure.

If anyone is interested, let me know, I know what price he has in mind, but would like to see what this market thinks it's worth.

 

[rickruddell]

Echo4lima:

Here is a list of Browning Serial numbers for the .22's (The list comes from the Big Book of Firearms Values).


.22 CAL. PISTOLS (Nomad-Challenger-Medalist)
Year Nomad Challenger Medalist
1959 P9 U9 T9
1960 P0 U0 T0
1961 P1 U1 T1
1962 P2 U2 T2
1963 P3 U3 T3
1964 P4 U4 T4
1965 P5 U5 T5
1966 P6 U6 T6
1967 P7 U7 T7
1968 P8 U8 T8
1969 P69 U69 T69
1970 P70 U70 T70
1971 P71 U71 T71
1972 P72 U72 T72
1973 P73 U73 T73
1974 Disc. U74 T74
1975 Disc. Disc. Disc.

In terms of value - in the U.S. - one in 99% condition in box (with papers) is in the $500 to $600 range - although you could do some research on Gunbroker or Gunsamerica (for a ballpark price). Canadian values tend to be a bit lower.

Looks like a nice one!

Rick

 

[Wink]

I have the same Belgian model Challenger. I bought it from a shooter at our club and paid $450 CAN. It came with one mag and an extra "international" bull barrel as well.