This is an example of a rare Model 1898 Schwarzlose self-loading semi-automatic pistol with only about 500 manufactured. This model was designed by Andreas Schwarzlose of Prussia, who was most noted for his early water cooled machine gun designs. These early semi-automatic pre-1899 pistols are extremely rare and this specific Schwarzlose pistol could almost be considered a prototype in design as so few were ever produced. During this time there were numerous companies attempting to produce semi-automatic pistols for the world market with only a handful actually coming to fruition. The functioning of this model is based on what is termed a rotating bolt mechanism, and is actually very similar in design to the current M16 series of rifles only 110 years earlier. This pistol is described on pages 62-65 in "TEXTBOOK OF AUTOMATIC PISTOLS" by R.K. Wilson. It is fitted with a high front sight and a rotating/adjustable rear sight that is graduated from 1-5 (100-50 meters?). The right side of the barrel, upper receiver and bolt all have the 1891 era German "Double Crown/U" proofmark. It has the full serial number on the lower receiver, trigger, magazine and bolt with "83" on the striker. It is fitted with a set of checkered walnut grips. This pistol was ahead of it's time!