This is a scarce example of an early first issue, unaltered Model 1908 DWM Military contract Luger pistol, that has not been modified for the hold-open device that was added to nearly all 1908's in 1913. These first issue 1908 Military Lugers were the true first German Military contract Lugers and all fall into a specific serial number range of 34 to approximately 4828b with this specific example being early (1040) with no letter suffix serial number range. These 1908 models are identified by having no date on top of the chamber area, the military proofs are located on the left side of the barrel extension, no hold-open device and no stock lug on the frame. The front toggle has the DWM logo and as noted the left side has the two crown over script letter Army inspection proofs with "Imperial Eagle Army" firing proof. It is correctly numbered in the military manner with full serial number on the frame, underside of the barrel with the last two digits on the recoil lug. The various small parts have the correct last two digits of the serial number. The safety and extractor are both correctly marked and it has checkered walnut grips with a nickel plated magazine with and a wooden base with the serial number "4360" running length wise on the base.

Excellent with 98% of the original blue finish overall. The various small parts retain 90% of their straw colors. The grips are near excellent with nice distinct checkering on both sides with some minor lite nicks in the checkering in a few places. The Luger has matching numbers overall except for the magazine as noted above. An exceptional early all original unaltered First Issue 1908 Military Luger Pistol.