Deactivated WW1 & WW2 Enfield SMLE MK3 Dunkirk Era

This is a fascinating WW1 & WW2 issued Enfield made SMLE MKIII rifle. Manufactrued in 1916 as a MKIII with magazine cut-off plate for service in the Great War it was rebarreled in 1930 and received a further upgrade is 1938. It has matching numbers to bolt barrel, receiver, nose cap and woodwork. The regimentally brass disc reads "R.A. 11. 39" Royal Artillery November 1939. From September 1939 British forces were deployed to France after war was declared with Nazi Germany. The BEF along with supporting artillery units started landing in France. As we are all aware things didn't end well for the British resulting in huge losses of men and equipment. The additional post war markings on the stock "FAG51" are those of the Italy; Fabbrica d'Armi Val Trompia, 1951, used when servicing/ repairing firearms. This would strongly suggest that this rifle was captured after the evacution of Dunkirk in 1940 and remained in Europe during the war after which it became the property of Italy. Note the repairs to the woodwork. The receiver has an unusual threaded hole and slot possibly for a scope mount?  A rare find!! Deactivated with a working action it can be cocked, stripped and dry fired.

********RESERVED*****************RESERVED*****************RESERVED*********DEPOSIT TAKEN*******