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How Much is My M1895 'Potato Digger' Worth?

The M1895, nicknamed the 'Potato Digger,' was the first successful gas-operated machine gun. Used by U.S. forces in early 20th-century conflicts, it remains a prized collector's item due to its unique lever action and historical importance.

Curious about how much your M1895 'Potato Digger' heavy machine gun is worth? Whether you’re looking to sell or simply understand current pricing, we’ll help you assess the market value of your firearm.

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About the M1895 'Potato Digger'

Invented by John Browning, the M1895 'Potato Digger' was the world’s first truly functional gas-operated machine gun. It earned its nickname from the downward-swinging operating lever, which would dig into the ground if mounted too low. Early versions were produced by Colt and later by Marlin, serving in the Spanish-American War, WWI, and even limited use into WWII. While functionally obsolete, transferable examples remain highly desirable due to their mechanical uniqueness and historical legacy.

Origin

United States

Manufacturer

Colt, Marlin

Caliber

.30-40 Krag, .30-06 Springfield

Rate of Fire

450–600 rounds per minute

Notable Uses

Spanish-American War, WWI, early WWII service

M1895 'Potato Digger' Machine Gun Values & Variants

Transferable M1895 'Potato Digger' Heavy Machine Guns are highly sought after by NFA collectors and enthusiasts. Value is influenced by originality, condition, variant type and any unique historical markings. Most examples on the market range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on configuration and provenance.

Common Variants & Value Ranges

  • Colt-Manufactured Examples

    Estimated Value: $15,000 – $20,000

  • Marlin-Manufactured Examples

    Estimated Value: $15,000 – $20,000

  • Aircraft Variants (Non-Mountable)

    Estimated Value: $5,000 – $10,000

Factors That Influence M1895 'Potato Digger' Values

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Originality:

Transferable M1895 'Potato Digger's with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.

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Condition:

Clean, well-maintained M1895 'Potato Digger' machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.

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Historical Markings / Provenance:

If there are markings or provenance that link your M1895 'Potato Digger' to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.

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Restoration:

Whether your M1895 'Potato Digger' has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.

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Transfer Status:

Transferrable M1895 'Potato Digger's will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.

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Receiver Type & Build Origin:

Original C&R M1895 'Potato Diggers' are worth more than rewelds or REWATS.

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Our mission is to make the process of selling your firearm as easy and convenient as possible.

Selling a firearm can be time-consuming and legally complex, especially for machine guns. At webuyguns.com, we streamline the process by purchasing directly from you, saving you time and ensuring a legally compliant, hassle-free transaction. With decades of experience, we provide fair market evaluations and encourage you to compare our offers locally to see the value we bring.

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Our streamlined process makes selling your firearm easy. If you accept our offer, simply package your firearm using the prepaid shipping label we provide. We’ll keep you updated with email notifications at every stage. No hassle, no guesswork—just a smooth, straightforward experience on your terms.

Steps
16 cloud upload Tell us what you have.
Fill out a short form and upload a few photos. This helps us identify what you have. We review your information and images to assess the condition and value of your firearm.
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We’ll provide an offer on your firearm via email within 72 hours, and if accepted, provide instructions to complete the process.
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We’ll provide a shipping label and keep you updated with email notifications tracking recieving the firearm, reviewing its condition and issuing payment.
Item Submitted
Colt Python: Minor scratches with approximately 200 rounds through it.
357 Mag Very Good
Offer Made
Ref # 0973457 .357 magnum Colt Python in very good condition.
$1,300
Offer Approved
Ref # 0973457 Colt Python
Item Shipped
Ref # 0973457 Colt Python
Tracking # 9610 1385 1287 3021
Item Received
Ref # 0973457 Colt Python
Customer Paid
ACH for $1,300 issued to customer account.

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Frequently asked questions

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, reach out to customer support or view all FAQ's

Is this legal?
Yes. We are a federally licensed firearms dealer located in the state of Indiana. You, the seller, are covered under our license just as you would be if you walked into our store with the item. There are no laws preventing you from selling your firearm to us.
What makes the M1895 'Potato Digger' unique?
Its distinctive gas lever operation and early adoption by the U.S. military make it a historically significant firearm. Unlike later machine guns, the M1895’s lever swings under the gun during firing, which gave it the nickname 'Potato Digger.'
How can I identify the manufacturer of my M1895?
Look for roll marks or stamping on the receiver or barrel shroud. Colt and Marlin both produced military and commercial variants. Earlier Colts are generally more valuable, while Marlin examples may feature simplified components for wartime production.
What affects the value of a Potato Digger machine gun?
Manufacturer, presence of original mounts, and historical provenance can significantly impact value. Condition is critical, and operational or intact examples typically command the highest prices.
Can I sell an M1895 machine gun I inherited?
Yes, but it must be a legally transferable pre-1986 registered machine gun. If it was registered on a Form 4 before the cutoff, it can be sold to eligible individuals. We can help confirm its status and assist with the transfer process.
How long are offers good for?
Offers are valid for 14 days.
Can I sell multiple firearms?
Absolutely! Once firearm information has been submitted, you will have the ability to submit additional firearms for review and offers. These firearms will be viewable from your user panel, which you access from your initial offer email. If you have a large number of firearms or an estate, it's best to contact us directly (just to save you a lot of time).
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