The Rheinmetall FG 42 Type I (Early) Ser. 32259 is a Rifle first produced in 1945. It carries a scarcity score of 98/100 based on tracked survey data, with 11 active listings currently on the secondary market and a global benchmark price of $292,954.
The FG 42 (Fallschirmjägergewehr 42) was developed by Rheinmetall for the German Luftwaffe in 1941 to provide paratroopers with a selective-fire rifle capable of both accurate single-shot engagement and suppressive automatic fire. Its unique design was a direct response to shortcomings identified during the Battle of Crete, where paratroopers lacked immediate heavy firepower upon landing.