What Is a Curio & Relic License and Is It Worth It?

# Curio & Relic Firearms in California: Collecting Antique and Historic Guns

For the discerning firearms enthusiast in California, the world of Curio and Relic (C&R) firearms offers a fascinating journey into the history of firearms design and manufacturing. These are not just old guns; they are tangible pieces of history, each with a story to tell. But navigating the legal landscape of C&R collecting in California can seem daunting. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what C&R firearms are, the benefits of becoming a licensed collector, and the specific steps you need to take to legally and enjoyably build your collection in the Golden State.

What Exactly is a Curio & Relic Firearm?

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) defines a Curio or Relic firearm in three categories. Understanding these categories is the first step to becoming a C&R collector.

The 50-Year Rule

The most straightforward category is any firearm that is at least 50 years old. This is a rolling date, so as of 2024, any firearm manufactured in or before 1974 is considered a C&R. This includes a vast array of military surplus rifles, classic sporting arms, and vintage handguns.

Museum-Certified Curios

A firearm can also be classified as a C&R if it is certified by the curator of a municipal, state, or federal museum as a curio or relic of museum interest. This is a less common path for individual collectors but is an important part of the definition.

Historically Significant and Novel Firearms

The third category is for firearms that derive a substantial part of their monetary value from their novelty, oddity, or historical significance. This can include firearms associated with a famous person or event, or firearms with unique and unusual designs. The ATF maintains a list of such firearms, which is periodically updated.

The Keys to Unlocking C&R Collecting in California: The FFL 03 and COE

To take full advantage of the benefits of C&R collecting in California, you will need two key documents: a Federal Firearms License (FFL) Type 03, also known as a Collector of Curios and Relics license, and a California Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

The FFL 03: Your Federal Collector's License

The FFL 03 is a federal license that allows you to acquire C&R firearms in interstate commerce. This means you can purchase C&R firearms from sellers in other states and have them shipped directly to your registered address, bypassing the need for a traditional firearms dealer in many cases. The application for an FFL 03 is made through the ATF, and the fee is a modest $30 for three years.

The Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Your California "Passport"

The Certificate of Eligibility is a California-specific document issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ). It certifies that you are not prohibited from owning or possessing firearms. To obtain a COE, you must submit an application and undergo a background check. The COE is a crucial component for C&R collectors in California, as it unlocks many of the exemptions that make collecting easier and more affordable.

The Benefits of Being a Licensed C&R Collector in California

With your FFL 03 and COE in hand, you can enjoy a number of significant benefits that are not available to the average firearms owner in California.

Exemption from the 1-in-30 Day Handgun Purchase Limit

One of the most significant benefits is the exemption from the one-handgun-per-30-days restriction. As a licensed collector with a COE, you can purchase multiple handguns, both C&R and modern, within a 30-day period. This is a major advantage for collectors who may come across multiple desirable firearms at once.

Direct Shipment of C&R Long Guns

You can have C&R long guns (rifles and shotguns) shipped directly to your home from out-of-state sellers. This saves you the time and expense of going through a local firearms dealer for these transfers. You are, however, required to report these acquisitions to the California DOJ within 30 days.

Exemption from the Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Requirement

When purchasing C&R firearms, you are exempt from the requirement to have a Firearm Safety Certificate. This streamlines the purchasing process and saves you the cost of the FSC test.

Ammunition Purchases

Licensed C&R collectors with a COE can also purchase ammunition from online retailers and have it shipped directly to their homes, bypassing the need to go through a licensed ammunition vendor.

The Process of Acquiring C&R Firearms in California

Now that you understand the benefits, let's look at the practical steps involved in acquiring C&R firearms in California.

In-State Private Party Transfers

For C&R long guns, you can purchase directly from another California resident without going through a dealer. You must have your FFL 03 and COE, and you must report the acquisition to the DOJ within 30 days. For C&R handguns, the transfer must still go through a licensed California firearms dealer.

Out-of-State Purchases

As mentioned, C&R long guns can be shipped directly to your home. C&R handguns, however, must be shipped to a licensed California firearms dealer for transfer. Even though the handgun is a C&R, it must still be on the California Roster of Handguns Certified for Sale, or you must be exempt from the roster (for example, if you are a law enforcement officer).

Your "Bound Book"

As a holder of an FFL 03, you are required by federal law to maintain a "bound book." This is a logbook where you record all C&R firearms you acquire and dispose of. For each firearm, you must record:

* Date of acquisition

* Name and address of the person from whom you received the firearm

* Name and FFL number of the licensee from whom you received the firearm

* Description of the firearm (manufacturer, model, serial number, caliber, etc.)

* Date of disposition

* Name and address of the person to whom you transferred the firearm

This bound book is a legal requirement and must be kept meticulously. It serves as the official record of your collection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Navigating C&R regulations can be tricky. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

* Assuming any old gun is a C&R: Always verify that a firearm is at least 50 years old or on the ATF's C&R list before treating it as such.

* Forgetting to report acquisitions: Remember to submit the required forms to the CA DOJ within 30 days of acquiring a C&R firearm.

* Incorrectly transferring handguns: C&R handguns must go through a licensed dealer in California. Do not attempt to have them shipped directly to your home.

* Letting your licenses lapse: Keep your FFL 03 and COE current. An expired license or certificate will invalidate your exemptions.

A Rewarding Pursuit for the California Collector

While California's firearm laws are complex, the path for a Curio & Relic collector is well-defined and offers significant advantages. By obtaining your FFL 03 and COE, you can legally and conveniently build a collection of historic firearms that will be a source of pride and enjoyment for years to come. The world of C&R collecting is rich with history, craftsmanship, and the stories of the past. For the dedicated California enthusiast, it is a pursuit well worth the effort.

Diving Deeper: Exploring the World of C&R Firearms

Now that we've covered the legal framework, let's delve into the exciting part: the firearms themselves. The world of C&R collecting is incredibly diverse, with something to interest every type of enthusiast. Here are a few popular categories to explore:

Military Surplus Rifles

For many collectors, military surplus rifles are the gateway to C&R collecting. These are firearms that were once issued to soldiers around the world, and they offer a direct connection to military history. Some of the most popular examples include:

* The M1 Garand: The iconic American battle rifle of World War II and the Korean War. Known for its distinctive "ping" when the en-bloc clip is ejected, the M1 Garand is a must-have for many collectors.

* The Mosin-Nagant: A Russian bolt-action rifle that saw service from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. These rifles are known for their ruggedness and affordability, making them a great entry point for new collectors.

* The Mauser K98k: The standard service rifle of the German military in World War II. The K98k is a well-made and accurate rifle that is highly sought after by collectors.

Classic Handguns

C&R handguns offer a fascinating look at the evolution of pistol design. From early single-action revolvers to the first semi-automatic pistols, there is a wide variety of C&R handguns to collect. Some popular examples include:

* The Colt Single Action Army: The legendary "Peacemaker" of the American West. These revolvers are highly collectible and come in a variety of calibers and configurations.

* The Luger P08: The iconic German semi-automatic pistol of World War I and World War II. The Luger is known for its unique toggle-lock action and its sleek, futuristic appearance.

* The Walther PPK: A small, concealable semi-automatic pistol that was favored by police and intelligence agencies around the world. The PPK is perhaps best known as the firearm of choice for James Bond.

Researching Your C&R Firearm

One of the most rewarding aspects of C&R collecting is researching the history of your firearms. With a little detective work, you can often uncover a wealth of information about where your firearm has been and what it has seen. Here are a few tips for researching your C&R firearms:

* Look for markings: Most military firearms will have a variety of markings that can tell you where and when it was made, as well as which military units it was issued to.

* Check the serial number: The serial number can often be used to determine the exact year of manufacture.

* Consult reference books and online forums: There are many excellent books and online forums dedicated to C&R collecting. These resources can be invaluable for identifying and researching your firearms.

By taking the time to research your C&R firearms, you can gain a deeper appreciation for their history and their place in the world. Happy collecting!