This is a very early example of a 1896 Number 2 semi-automatic pistol as produced by the Bergmann company, with ultra-rare folding trigger mechanism. These early number 2 pistols were chambered in a very unique 5mm Bergmann rimless, grooveless cartridge. Theodore Bergman was a pioneer in developing semi-automatic pistols in Europe in the late 1890s and early 1900s right along side Mauser, Borchardt, Luger and Walther. These early commercial pistol are very difficult to find as very few were produced, all were eclipsed by later semi-automatic pistols, with most staying in Europe with those surviving examples being brought back by returning GIs after WWII. These models were truly successful commercial pistol and it has the distinctive sliding flat top bolt and top cover with the thin, lightweight firing pin. This specific model as noted has the very early and very rare folding trigger mechanism that was offered only a special order basis for only a very short time. Eventually it was dropped from production early on in the design, as the company went to the standard/conventional fixed trigger mechanism located within the frame or receiver. Additionally this model has the unique forward mounted, integral magazine similar to the Mannlicher rifle and pistols that loads by rotating the magazine side plate downward to insert the cartridges from the side. The right side of the pistol has the small Bergman Factory logo of a "Mountain Man" which was the literal translation for the name "Bergmann", that eventually evolved into "miner", which is what this logo represents. The logo is surrounded with "GAGGENAU" on top and "V.C.S./SUHL" on the bottom. Gaggenau was the location of the factory and V.C.S. were the initials for V. Charles Schilling, who actually manufactured these pistols for Bergmann. The right side of the frame, the back side of both grips, and under the left grip panel (on the frame) are stamped with serial number 140. The front of the trigger is stamped with number "40" and the left side of the breech end of the barrel it is numbered 611. The left side is also marked with "PATENT/BREVET/S.G.D.G.". The left side of the barrel, slide/section cover and top of the bolt it is stamped with a small Crown over "U" proof. It is fitted with a set of walnut checkered grips. The holster that accompanies the pistol as noted is an original 1896 unmarked, brown leather holster designed for the number 2 pistol that has a single flap, with brass closure stud on the front and a single belt loop on the back side. It has no markings but fits the pistol perfectly. This pistol and holster is accompanied with some historical information on this rare little pistol.

Excellent overall with 95% of the original blue finish with light wear on the edges and high spots overall with wear on the edges and high spots. The safety lever retains 95% of its original nitre blued finish, with the various smaller parts retaining 60% of their straw colors, mostly in the protected areas. The walnut grips are in near excellent condition with nice distinct checkering overall showing only light wear across the tops of the checkering, from handling and use over the years. The holster retains most of the original brown color polish overall with tight stitching. The edges of the holster, top or fold of the flap and lower tab, do show wear and scuffing of the leather, mixed with some age cracking in those areas. However any holster is considered very rare and one in this high end condition adds a real plus to the value of this rare little automatic pistol. Certainly this rig would be a center piece for any high end semi-automatic pistol collection.