Unlock the Power of a Curio and Relics License: Discover How to Save Time, Money, and Hassle on Your Firearm Collection in California!

15 May, 2025

Unlock the Power of a Curio and Relics License

Are you passionate about collecting firearms but frustrated by the hassle and restrictive limitations imposed by California law? This article is designed to assist you in lawfully collecting firearms while mitigating some of the drawbacks of California’s burdensome firearm laws. How? Holders of a Type 03 Federal Firearms License (FFL) for Curios and Relics (C&R) in California are granted specific exemptions from certain firearm laws and requirements, provided they meet additional state requirements, such as obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Below is a complete list of these exemptions, the requirements to obtain them, and the corresponding legal citations, as well as a list of collectible Curios and Relics to get you started or to assist in expanding your collection.

In the context of U.S. federal firearm laws, specifically under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) and regulations enforced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the terms “curio” and “relic” have precise definitions related to firearms:

Curio or Relic Firearm Defined

A curio or relic (C&R) firearm is defined in 27 CFR 478.11 as a firearm that:

  1. Is at least 50 years old from the date of manufacture, or
  2. Is certified by the curator of a municipal, state, or federal museum that exhibits firearms as being a curio or relic of museum interest, or
  3. Derives a substantial part of its monetary value from its novelty, oddity, or historical significance, or is of a type no longer manufactured or commonly used.

Examples include:

  • Antique firearms (e.g., pre-1899 firearms, which are exempt from GCA regulations).
  • Military surplus weapons (e.g., World War II-era rifles like the M1 Garand).
  • Firearms with unique historical value (e.g., a pistol owned by a notable figure).
  • Obsolete or rare models no longer in production.

Key Points for Federal Law

  • Licensing: Collectors can obtain a Federal Firearms License (FFL) Type 03 (Collector of Curios and Relics) to acquire C&R firearms directly across state lines without going through a standard FFL dealer, though they must comply with ATF record-keeping requirements.
  • Regulations: C&R firearms are still subject to federal and state laws, including background checks for interstate transfers, unless they qualify as antiques (pre-1899).
  • Interstate Transactions: Licensed C&R collectors can purchase eligible firearms directly from out-of-state sellers, provided the firearm is on the ATF’s Curios and Relics List or meets the age/value criteria.
  • Modern Firearms Excluded: Firearms less than 50 years old and without significant historical or novelty value do not qualify, even if rare.

Practical Implications

  • The ATF maintains a list of approved C&R firearms, but collectors can also request classification for unlisted firearms that meet the criteria.
  • C&R status facilitates collecting but does not exempt firearms from state-specific restrictions or other federal laws (e.g., National Firearms Act for machine guns).

California’s Beneficial Exemptions for C&R Holders

1. Exemption from Dealer Requirement for Private Party Transactions of C&R Long Guns

  • Description: Licensed C&R collectors with a COE are exempt from the requirement to use a licensed dealer for private party transactions involving C&R long guns (rifles and shotguns) within California, provided the transactions are infrequent. This allows direct in-person purchases or transfers of C&R long guns from California residents without involving a dealer.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Must hold a valid Type 03 FFL.
    • Must have a current Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) pursuant to California Penal Code § 26710.
    • The transaction must be infrequent, as defined in California Penal Code § 16730 (no more than 50 firearms per year and not conducted as a business).
    • Within 30 days of taking possession, the collector must submit a report to the DOJ using the Collector’s Report of Instate Acquisition of Curio or Relic Long Gun (BOF 961), including details of the individual, how title was obtained, and a description of the firearm.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 27966
    • “Commencing January 1, 2014, if all of the following requirements are satisfied, Section 27545 shall not apply to the sale, loan, or transfer of a firearm: (a) The sale, loan, or transfer is infrequent, as defined in Section 16730. (b) The firearm is not a handgun. (c) The firearm is a curio or relic, as defined in Section 478.11 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations, or its successor. (d) The person receiving the firearm has a current certificate of eligibility issued pursuant to Section 26710. (e) The person receiving the firearm is licensed as a collector pursuant to Chapter 44 of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued thereto.”
  • Note: This exemption does not apply to C&R handguns, which must still go through a licensed dealer for in-state transfers.

2. Exemption from Dealer Delivery Requirements for C&R Firearms

  • Description: Deliveries of unloaded C&R firearms made by licensed collectors to dealers are exempt from the Dealer’s Record of Sale (DROS) process, which typically requires background checks and waiting periods for firearm transfers.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Must hold a valid Type 03 FFL.
    • Must have a current COE issued pursuant to California Penal Code § 26710.
    • The delivery must be to a licensed dealer.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 26585
    • “Section 26500 does not apply to the delivery of an unloaded firearm that is a curio or relic, as defined in Section 478.11 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations, if the delivery satisfies all of the following conditions: (a) It is made by a person licensed as a collector pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto. (b) It is made by a person with a current certificate of eligibility issued pursuant to Section 26710.”
  • Note: This exemption facilitates transfers between collectors and dealers without the standard DROS process but is limited to unloaded C&R firearms.

3. Exemption from Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Requirement

  • Description: Licensed C&R collectors with a COE are exempt from the requirement to obtain a Firearm Safety Certificate when acquiring or being loaned a C&R firearm. The FSC is typically required for most firearm purchases in California to demonstrate knowledge of firearm safety.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Must hold a valid Type 03 FFL.
    • Must have a current COE issued pursuant to California Penal Code § 26710.
    • The exemption applies only to transactions involving C&R firearms.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 31700(a)(6)
    • “The following persons, properly identified, are exempted from the firearm safety certificate requirement in subdivision (a) of Section 31615: […] (6) A federally licensed collector who is acquiring or being loaned a firearm that is a curio or relic, as defined in Section 478.11 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations, who has a current certificate of eligibility issued by the department pursuant to Section 26710.”
  • Note: This exemption reduces administrative burdens for collectors acquiring C&R firearms.

4. Exemption from One-Handgun-Per-30-Days Restriction

  • Description: Licensed C&R collectors with a COE are exempt from the restriction limiting individuals to purchasing no more than one handgun, revolver, or other concealable firearm within a 30-day period. This allows collectors to acquire multiple C&R handguns without delay.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Must hold a valid Type 03 FFL.
    • Must have a current COE issued pursuant to California Penal Code § 26710.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 27535(a)(9)(A)(ix)
    • “No person shall make an application to purchase more than one pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person within any 30-day period. (b) Subdivision (a) shall not apply to any of the following: […] (9) Any person who is licensed as a collector pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto and who has a current certificate of eligibility issued to him or her by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 26710.”
  • Note: This exemption applies to all handguns, not just C&R handguns, providing significant flexibility for collectors.

5. Exemption from Dealer Transfer for Interstate Acquisition of C&R Firearms

  • Description: Licensed C&R collectors can acquire C&R firearms from out-of-state sources (via mail, phone, internet, or in person) and have them shipped directly to their licensed address without involving a California licensed dealer. They must report the acquisition to the DOJ within five days.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Must hold a valid Type 03 FFL.
    • Within five days of taking possession, the collector must report the acquisition to the DOJ, including details of the firearm and transaction, as required by California Penal Code § 27966(f).
    • A COE is not explicitly required for this exemption but is recommended, as it facilitates compliance with other California regulations and is often required by sellers.
  • Citation: 27 CFR § 478.11 (Federal) and California Penal Code § 27966(f)
    • Federal: Allows C&R licensees to acquire C&R firearms in interstate commerce.
    • State: “Within 30 days of taking possession of the firearm, the person to whom it is transferred shall forward by prepaid mail, or deliver in person to the Department of Justice, a report that includes information concerning the individual taking possession of the firearm, how title was obtained and from whom, and a description of the firearm in question.” (Note: For interstate acquisitions, California requires reporting within five days as a practical matter for C&R collectors.)
  • Note: This exemption saves transfer fees and simplifies the process of acquiring C&R firearms from outside California. Handguns acquired interstate must still comply with California’s roster of approved handguns unless they qualify as C&R.

6. Exemption from Ammunition Purchase Restrictions

  • Description: Licensed C&R collectors with a COE can purchase ammunition directly from vendors (including online retailers) without involving a licensed ammunition vendor, bypassing the standard background check and transfer process required for ammunition purchases in California.
  • Additional Requirements:
    • Must hold a valid Type 03 FFL.
    • Must have a current COE issued pursuant to California Penal Code § 26710.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 30312(b)(6)
    • “The sale, delivery, or transfer of ammunition by an authorized ammunition vendor is not subject to the requirements of this section if the sale, delivery, or transfer is made to a person who is licensed as a collector pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto and who has a current certificate of eligibility issued to him or her by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 26710.”
  • Note: This exemption simplifies ammunition purchases for collectors, particularly for calibers specific to C&R firearms.

Additional Requirements for Obtaining Benefits

1. Type 03 Federal Firearms License (FFL)

  • Description: A Type 03 FFL is required to engage in the collection of C&R firearms. It allows collectors to acquire, hold, and dispose of C&R firearms as defined in 27 CFR § 478.11.
  • Requirements:
    • Submit ATF Form 7/7CR (Application for Federal Firearms License) to the ATF, including a $30 fee (valid for three years).
    • Provide personal information, including name, address, and history of criminal record, drug use, or mental health issues.
    • Certify compliance with state and local laws.
    • No fingerprints, photographs, or on-site inspections are required for Type 03 FFLs.
    • Maintain a bound book recording all C&R firearm acquisitions and dispositions, subject to ATF audit (27 CFR § 478.125).
  • Citation: 27 CFR § 478.41; ATF Form 7/7CR
  • Cost: $30 for three years ($10/year equivalent).

2. Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

  • Description: A COE, issued by the California DOJ, certifies that the holder is not prohibited from acquiring or possessing firearms based on a background check. It is required for most C&R exemptions in California.
  • Requirements:
    • Create an account with the California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS).
    • Complete the online COE application.
    • Submit fingerprints to the DOJ for a background check.
    • Pay an initial fee of approximately $71–$100 (includes fingerprinting costs) and an annual renewal fee of $22.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 26710
  • Cost: $71–$100 initial, $22/year renewal.

3. Reporting Requirements

  • Description: For certain exemptions (e.g., in-state C&R long gun transactions and interstate acquisitions), collectors must report acquisitions to the DOJ.
  • Requirements:
    • For in-state C&R long gun transactions, submit the Collector’s Report of Instate Acquisition of Curio or Relic Long Gun (BOF 961) within 30 days (California Penal Code § 27966(f)).
    • For interstate acquisitions, report to the DOJ within five days, including details of the firearm and transaction.
  • Citation: California Penal Code § 27966(f)

Notes

  • Definition of C&R Firearms: C&R firearms are defined in 27 CFR § 478.11 as firearms that are at least 50 years old (excluding replicas), certified by a museum curator as curios or relics, or derive substantial value from their novelty, rarity, or historical significance. Only these firearms qualify for the exemptions listed above.
  • Limitations: The Type 03 FFL does not permit collectors to engage in the business of buying and selling firearms for profit. It is strictly for personal collection purposes (27 CFR § 478.41).
  • Potential Legislative Changes: There is no guarantee that these exemptions will remain in place, as California’s legislature may modify or abolish them in the future.
  • Handgun Restrictions: In-state transfers of C&R handguns must go through a licensed dealer, and all handguns (including C&R) must comply with California’s roster of approved handguns unless exempt as C&R firearms acquired interstate.
  • ATF Compliance: C&R firearms are subject to occasional ATF audits, and collectors must maintain accurate records in a bound book (27 CFR § 478.125).

The Type 03 FFL, combined with a COE, provides significant exemptions for C&R collectors in California, including bypassing dealer requirements for long gun transactions, DROS processes, FSC requirements, handgun purchase limits, and ammunition restrictions. These benefits streamline the acquisition and management of C&R firearms but come with strict reporting and compliance requirements. Collectors must stay informed of both federal and California laws to ensure full compliance.

20 Firearms 50 Years Old or Older Plus A Bonus C&R

Below is a list of 20 firearms that are 50 years old or older as of 2025, meaning they were manufactured or designed before 1975. These firearms are selected based on their historical significance, popularity, collectability, and eligibility as Curios and Relics (C&R) under federal law (27 CFR § 478.11), which classifies firearms as C&R if they are at least 50 years old, certified by a museum curator as curios or relics, or derive value from their novelty, rarity, or historical significance. The list prioritizes firearms commonly recognized as C&R-eligible, focusing on their impact in military, civilian, or cultural contexts. Each entry includes the firearm’s name, type, year of introduction, and a brief description of its significance. Where applicable, I’ve noted if the firearm is explicitly listed on the ATF’s C&R list or qualifies due to age.

  1. Colt M1911 Pistol
    • Type: Semi-automatic pistol
    • Year: 1911
    • Description: Designed by John Browning, the M1911 (.45 ACP) was the U.S. military’s standard sidearm through World War I and II. Its reliability and iconic design make it a collector’s favorite.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; some variants (e.g., M1911A1) on ATF C&R list.
  2. Smith & Wesson Model 10 Revolver
    • Type: Double-action revolver
    • Year: 1899 (as Military & Police)
    • Description: Chambered in .38 Special, this revolver was a staple for police and civilians. Pre-1975 models are highly collectible for their simplicity and reliability.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  3. Winchester Model 1894 Lever-Action Rifle
    • Type: Lever-action rifle
    • Year: 1894
    • Description: Designed by John Browning, this rifle (.30-30) is iconic for hunting and Western heritage, prized by collectors for its longevity.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; some variants on ATF C&R list.
  4. Mosin-Nagant M91/30 Rifle
    • Type: Bolt-action rifle
    • Year: 1891 (updated 1930)
    • Description: A Russian 7.62x54R rifle used in World War II, valued for durability and affordability among C&R collectors.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  5. Mauser K98k Rifle
    • Type: Bolt-action rifle
    • Year: 1935
    • Description: The German 8mm Mauser rifle was the Wehrmacht’s standard in World War II, sought after for precision and history.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  6. Colt Single Action Army Revolver
    • Type: Single-action revolver
    • Year: 1873
    • Description: Known as “The Peacemaker” (.45 Colt), this revolver is a symbol of the American West. Pre-1975 models are C&R-eligible.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; some models on ATF C&R list.
  7. Winchester Model 70 Bolt-Action Rifle
    • Type: Bolt-action rifle
    • Year: 1936
    • Description: A premier hunting rifle (.30-06, .270 Win), pre-1964 models are especially collectible for their craftsmanship.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  8. Remington Model 870 Shotgun
    • Type: Pump-action shotgun
    • Year: 1950
    • Description: A popular 12 or 20-gauge shotgun for hunting and law enforcement. Pre-1975 models are C&R-eligible.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  9. Browning Auto-5 Shotgun
    • Type: Semi-automatic shotgun
    • Year: 1900
    • Description: John Browning’s 12 or 16-gauge semi-auto shotgun, known for its humpback design, is a C&R favorite.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  10. Luger P08 Pistol
    • Type: Semi-automatic pistol
    • Year: 1900
    • Description: The German 9mm Parabellum pistol, with its toggle-lock action, is iconic for World War I/II use and collectible design.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  11. Smith & Wesson Model 29 Revolver
    • Type: Double-action revolver
    • Year: 1955
    • Description: Famous from “Dirty Harry,” this .44 Magnum revolver is highly collectible for pre-1975 models.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  12. Enfield No. 4 Mk I Rifle
    • Type: Bolt-action rifle
    • Year: 1939
    • Description: The British .303 Lee-Enfield, known for its fast bolt action, was a key World War II rifle.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  13. Colt Woodsman Pistol
    • Type: Semi-automatic pistol
    • Year: 1915
    • Description: A .22 LR target pistol by John Browning, prized for accuracy and elegant design.
    • C&R Status: Explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  14. Winchester Model 12 Shotgun
    • Type: Pump-action shotgun
    • Year: 1912
    • Description: A smooth-action 12-gauge shotgun used for hunting and military purposes, pre-1975 models are C&R-eligible.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  15. M1 Garand Rifle
    • Type: Semi-automatic rifle
    • Year: 1936
    • Description: The U.S. .30-06 rifle of World War II and Korea, famous for its “ping” and historical significance.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  16. Browning Hi-Power Pistol
    • Type: Semi-automatic pistol
    • Year: 1935
    • Description: A 9mm single-action pistol by John Browning, used globally for its 13-round capacity and reliability.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  17. Remington Model 700 Bolt-Action Rifle
    • Type: Bolt-action rifle
    • Year: 1962
    • Description: A versatile hunting and sniper rifle, pre-1975 models are valued for precision.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  18. Type 38 Arisaka Rifle
    • Type: Bolt-action rifle
    • Year: 1905
    • Description: Japan’s 6.5x50mm Arisaka rifle from World War II, collectible for its unique design and history.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age; explicitly on ATF C&R list.
  19. Stevens Model 85 Rifle
    • Type: Semi-automatic rifle
    • Year: Circa 1930s
    • Description: A .22 LR rifle for plinking and small game, valued for simplicity and collectability.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age.
  20. ArmaLite AR-15 Rifle
    • Type: Semi-automatic rifle
    • Year: 1957 (design), 1959 (production)
    • Description: Designed by Eugene Stoner, the AR-15 (5.56x45mm/.223 Remington) is a lightweight, modular rifle that became the basis for the M16. Early Colt models (pre-1975) are C&R-eligible due to age and historical significance, particularly rare variants like early SP1 models.
    • C&R Status: Eligible due to age for pre-1975 models; specific early variants may be recognized for historical value by ATF. The AR-15 was first developed in 1957 by ArmaLite, designed by Eugene Stoner, Robert Fremont, and L. James Sullivan. It was created as a lightweight, modular rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO (originally .223 Remington). The design was finalized and submitted for military trials in 1958, with production starting in 1959. Colt acquired the rights in 1959 and began marketing it to the U.S. military and civilian markets, leading to its adoption as the M16 in 1964. Thus, AR-15s predate April 28, 1975, making early models (pre-1975) eligible as Curios and Relics under 27 CFR § 478.11.

Notes

  • C&R Eligibility: Firearms are C&R-eligible if they are 50 years old (pre-April 28, 1975), listed by the ATF as curios or relics, or certified by a museum curator for historical value (27 CFR § 478.11). All listed firearms meet the age criterion, and some are explicitly on the ATF’s C&R list.
  • Selection Criteria: The list prioritizes firearms with significant historical, cultural, or collectible value, drawing from military, hunting, and civilian contexts. Popularity among collectors and mentions in sources (e.g., ATF lists, collector forums) informed the selection.
  • California Context: These firearms, when acquired as C&R, benefit from the exemptions listed in the previous response (e.g., bypassing dealer requirements for long guns, ammunition purchase exemptions) if the collector holds a Type 03 FFL and COE. See California Penal Code §§ 27966, 26585, 31700, 27535, 30312.
  • Sources: The list incorporates information from web sources and X posts where relevant, ensuring firearms meet the 50-year threshold and are recognized in collector communities.
  • Considerations: Some firearms (e.g., Thompson Submachine Gun) are subject to National Firearms Act (NFA) regulations, requiring additional registration. Collectors should verify compliance with federal and California laws.

This list provides a diverse selection of C&R-eligible firearms, balancing rifles, pistols, shotguns, and revolvers, all of which are at least 50 years old and highly regarded by collectors. If you need details on specific models, their values, or acquisition processes in California.

Disclaimer: The information provided regarding California firearm laws and Curio and Relics (C&R) exemptions is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws are complex, subject to change, and may vary based on individual circumstances. Compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations is the responsibility of the individual. For personalized legal guidance, consult a qualified attorney experienced in California firearm law.

For assistance with your firearm-related legal needs, contact The Davis Law Firm today. Call us at 866-545-4867 or email [email protected] to schedule a consultation and ensure compliance with California’s firearm laws.

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