This is a French Berthier M16 used by the Vercors Maquis resistance group in WWII. It also could have seen some use in WWI.
The symbol on the buttstock includes the French Cross of Lorraine and the "V" for Victory symbols. The symbol was also on the flag of the short-lived Free Republic of Vercors. The Republic and Maquis were dissolved when the Germans surprise attacked via gliders and mountain troops, before their own attacks could begin in concert with the Normandy invasion.
The rifle is in decent condition. The numbers match except the stock. The front of the gun, despite the 1930's painted finish, has rust, and the bore also has some rust. There are no import marks, so it may have been a vet bringback, especially considering most French imports have come into the USA after 1986.
A number of French Adrian helmets were similarly altered, with their insignia replaced with the Cross of Lorraine. Some can be seen on this French blog dedicated to the Vercors Maquis: http://brunorey.hautetfort.com/
The symbol on the buttstock includes the French Cross of Lorraine and the "V" for Victory symbols. The symbol was also on the flag of the short-lived Free Republic of Vercors. The Republic and Maquis were dissolved when the Germans surprise attacked via gliders and mountain troops, before their own attacks could begin in concert with the Normandy invasion.
The rifle is in decent condition. The numbers match except the stock. The front of the gun, despite the 1930's painted finish, has rust, and the bore also has some rust. There are no import marks, so it may have been a vet bringback, especially considering most French imports have come into the USA after 1986.
A number of French Adrian helmets were similarly altered, with their insignia replaced with the Cross of Lorraine. Some can be seen on this French blog dedicated to the Vercors Maquis: http://brunorey.hautetfort.com/