Guns.com Premier Auction: Browning Auto-5 "Light Twelve" S/N 2,000,000 Commemorative

The Browning Auto-5, or “Light Twelve,” as it's also known, has long been a staple for hunters forging into the field looking to fill their dinner plates. The design is over 100 years old yet still makes its mark in the field and clay stands as a reliable scattergun. We happened to get our hands on a special commemorative edition of the Browning Auto-5 in the Guns.com Premier Vault auction, let’s dive into the details on what makes this one so special.

Even if you're new to firearms auctions, Guns.com makes it easy to get in on the action, with bids starting at just 1 cent. Bidding starts Aug. 3 and wraps up Aug. 9, so don't miss your chance to add this commemorative Browning Auto-5 “Light 12” to your collection.

Table of Contents

Video Overview
Brief History
Detailed Images
Key Auction Details
Key Features

Video Overview

Brief History

John Moses Browning filed his original patent for the Auto-5 in 1898, but in 1900 his patent for a recoil-operated firearm laid out the semi-auto operation, the first of its kind for a shotgun, and the rest was history. After being rejected by Winchester, Browning presented the design to FN, which began production on the shotgun in 1902. Both Savage and Remington later realized the value of Browning’s design and produce their own variants.

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The design proved to be so popular that it remained a staple on factory lines until 1998, when Browning ceased production. To commemorate making 2 million Auto-5 shotguns, Browning ran a special line of 2,000 shotguns – the one we are presenting being 199 of 2,000. This is no ordinary A5. It’s adorned with scroll work and gold inlay, including the signature of John Moses Browning on the receiver, something not typically seen.

This would revolutionize the shotgun platform. (Photo: Browning’s Recoil Operated Firearm Patent, Feb. 8, 1900)

While not the first to pursue a semi-auto shotgun platform, Browning succeeded in creating a gun “in which the parts are constructed with particular reference to simplicity of construction, strength, durability, and reliability of operation.” (Photo: Browning’s Recoil Operated Firearm Patent, Feb. 8, 1900)

For most, the Auto-5 is a hunting shotgun, and a tank of one at that. While it lacks the modern features of new shotguns, it makes up for it in recoil management and pointability. Like most Browning designs, it has proved reliable and a trustworthy companion for many Americans over the years.

Detailed Photos

These commemorative edition Auto'5's come with a custom case, nearly as classy as the gun itself. (All photos: Jake Hageman/Guns.com)

A closer look at some of that beautiful scroll work and one-of-a-kind signature.

The rollmark "Made in Belgium" means you're getting a quality gun aside from the looks.

But just look at that checkering and that high-grade walnut.

There is your serial number, 2,000,000 - 199.

Another look at the serial number, but also the lifter. This gun is clean, likely never having been fire. Note, that you also get a special commemorative manual with this gun as well.

You might not want to take this gun deep into the field, but just know it's more than capable.

Another look at that classy case. There was no expense spared in putting this package together, and it could be your showpiece for years to come.

Key Auction Details

As with all Guns.com auctions, bids start at just 1 cent. This auction opens Aug. 3 and ends Aug. 9, so be sure to mark your calendar. Whether you're simply a fan of historic firearm designs or a Browning buff, this commemorative Browning Light 12 would make an interesting addition to your arsenal.

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Key Features

Excellent Condition: This gun is a highly presentable collector’s piece overall, showing only light age-related wear, including minor case blemishes.

Limited-Production Firearm: This Browning Auto-5 is serial number 199 out of a run of only 2,000.

Unique Engraving: This Auto-5 features a John Moses Browning signature in gold inlay, which sets it apart from typical Auto-5 shotguns.

Finish & Furniture: Blued 28-inch barrel, chambered in 12 gauge. This model features a beautiful walnut stock and forend, which sets it apart even further. Gold inlay can be found throughout the gun and on the trigger.
Original Case: Includes the original velvet-lined presentation case with its matching commemorative manual.

Alexander Reville

Alexander Reville is a writer and content creator for Guns.com who transitioned from the warehouse to the content team fueled by a passion for American history and firearms. A proud graduate of Marion Military Institute and a former minor league hockey player, he remains active as a firearms instructor and private security contractor.

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