Manufactured during the German occupation of Belgium during World War II. Blade front and tangent rear sights with the two-line Herstal address over the Browning patent marking on the slide "eagle/swastika" and "WaA103" proofs on the slide, and barrel and stacked serial numbers on the right. Serrated ring hammer, slotted back strap, and checkered hardwood grips. Includes email correspondence between the consignor and Anthony Vanderlinden, author of the book "FN Browning Pistols: Side-Arms that Shaped the World History", and other books dealing with Belgian firearms.

Very fine as professionally restored with 99% of the current rust blue finish and some small handling and cycling marks. Grips are very good with well defined, slightly smooth checkering. Mechanically needs work as the hammer drops when the slide is released.