This is another exceptionally rare early semi-automatic pistol that was previously in the prestigious Joseph Schroder pistol collection. This example is the "earliest" known Bergmann-Simplex small frame pistol in the world with this example being serial number "22". This pistol design is actually a smaller/reduced version of the Model 1899 or its common designation, a Bergmann "No. 6" pistol. It is estimated that approximately 3,500-4,000 were produced in total, however it was not a very robust or sturdy weapon and certainly not up to the standards of the traditional Bergmann pistols with very few actually even seen today. These pistols fired a short 8 mm cartridge that eventually evolved into the 7,65mm Automatic cartridge. The most important feature of these pistols is the detachable box magazine that has an early cartridge counter type magazine. This design is actually very primitive and consists of a series of holes in both sides of the magazine well and the box magazine itself. Once a loaded magazine is inserted into the pistol you can visually see the cartridges in the magazine providing the shooter with a quick count of how many rounds remain in the magazine. The left side of the frame is marked "PATENT/BREVETE/S.G.D.G." with the top of the breech end of the barrel, frame and the rear of the bolt also having a single "Crown" proof over a "Crown/U" proof mark. It has a heat blued safety lever on the left side and the frame has the corresponding "S and F" markings for SAFE and FIRE. It is currently fitted with a set of checkered walnut grips. These pistols have an all blue finish with a straw colored hammer, trigger and bright polished bolt. The underside of the frame/grip cap, the bolt and trigger are all stamped with the serial number "22" as noted.

Fine overall with 30% plus of the original blue finish remaining overall with the balance of the metal surfaces turning a gray patina. The safety lever retains 85% of its heat blued finish overall. The trigger and hammer retain 40% of their straw colors. The grips are also in fine condition with fine checkering on both sides, a small age/stress crack on the rear of the grip and a small crack at the upper rear edge of the grip. The right side also shows some minor handling marks on the checkering. This pistol is an extremely rare and early Bergmann Simplex that would be the centerpiece of any advanced semi-automatic pistol collection.