An M1 Garand rifle presented to John F Kennedy will cross the block at Rock Island Auction in Illinois on September 11-13.
Kennedy bought the gun from the US army's surplus stock in 1959. Its trigger was adjusted and its metal blued to prevent rust before it was shipped to the future president.
 Kennedy acquired the M1 Garand in 1959 - a year before winning the presidential election |
Over the years it has been exhibited to the public several times, most notably in a 1970 show of presidential guns held by the NRA.
Rock Island comments: "Since this rifle was obtained almost a year before he would be elected to the Presidency, it is entirely possible that this rifle followed Kennedy into the White House.
"This is an amazing firearm worthy of the finest collections of U.S. military arms, M1 Garands, and even Kennedy memorabilia.
"It is a rare chance to own a personal possession of the beloved veteran, congressman, and president."
Kennedy memorabilia is highly sought after. Two flags that hung in the oval office during his presidency sold for $425,000 last year.
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