A standout example of an original 1900 DWM "American Eagle" Luger as developed and sold to the U.S. Government after the turn of the 20th century for test trials. In April 1900, the U.S. Ordnance Board authorized an order for 1,000 DWM Model 1900 Luger pistols. They were delivered in two separate lots, with approximately 800 on shipped October 26, 1901, and the remaining 200 on October 29, 1901. A list of recorded serial numbers can be seen on page 387 of "U.S. Military Automatic Pistols 1894-1920" by Meadows, with this example a single digit off from being included on that list. These early American Eagle Test Lugers were made expressly for the U.S. military when they were interested in the Luger as a replacement for the .38 caliber revolvers issued during the late 1890s and early 1900s. The three most distinguishing features noted on all these Lugers were the lack of German acceptance proofs, the lack of "GERMANY" export markings usually found on the front of the frame or under the barrel, and the last two digits of the serial number were stamped on the rounded portion of the opposite side of the takedown lever. The only other feature found on some U.S. Test Trial Lugers was a small German ordnance proof that resembled the U.S. Ordnance bomb proofs. While the Lugers had a number of virtues, they were overlooked by U.S. Ordnance in favor of domestically produced designs. The survivors of the testing were surplus and released for public sale through Bannerman's. Features fixed blade front and "V" notch rear sights, with an "American eagle" crest on top of the chamber, and no visible German markings. Matching visible serial numbers on the barrel and frame, with "88" partials on the takedown lever, side plate, toggle links, bolt, and extension. Fitted with niter blue and straw colored small parts, along with checkered walnut grips numbered "88" on the interior and a nickel finished magazine with an unmarked hardwood base. Includes a brown leather flap holster stamped "US" and "OJ" on the front of the flap and "ROCK ISLAND/ARSENAL/E.H.S." on the back.

Very fine, retaining 80% plus original blue finish on all parts except the professionally restored barrel, with minor edge wear, light fading on the extension and grip frame, along with faint spotting on the frame. 70% original straw colors remain on small parts. The grips are also very fine with light handling marks and crisp checkering. The holster is fine with minor cracking and supple leather. Mechanically excellent.