This is an example of a desirable "P" code commercial contract Luger with the scarce Krieghoff side frame inscription markings. This series of Luger is classified into two basic groups; early Series I are serial numbered, P1 to P1,000; later Series I "five digit" serial numbers fall into the range between P11,000 to P30,000. This Luger falls directly into the later part of the second group. It is estimated that in the first group approximately 960 were made, however in the second group less than 10 examples are known to exist. These two types of commercial Lugers are described on page 190 through 199 of Gibson's book "The Krieghoff Parabellum". This Luger has the correct blank chamber area with the Krieghoff factory five pointed star proof on the right side of the barrel extension, indicating it was rejected for military acceptance. It also has the later horizontal "Crown/N" firing proofs on the left side frame rail, top of the breech block, barrel extension and underside of the barrel. The front toggle a C-1 type die markings with the "I" in Krieghoff centered over the "S" in Suhl and the round bottom "U". The left side of the frame has the rare inscription "Heinrich Krieghoff/Waffenfabrik/Suhl". The pistol is numbered in the commercial fashion with the full serial number (26796) on the front of the frame with the "P" slightly offset and up to the left with "26796" on the left side of the barrel extension. The last two digits (96) are stamped on the various other parts to include the breech block, toggle assembly, and side plate. It is fitted with a set of the later pattern fine checkered brown plastic grips with no marks or proofs on the back sides. This pistol has the high polish Krieghoff blue finish with the straw colored smaller parts. It is complete with a Haenel Schmeisser marked nickel plated magazine with the aluminum base. The base has been renumbered "26796" to match the Luger. It is complete with a early all black military leather holster that is marked on the back"G. PASSIER & SOHN/HANNOVER/1940/WaA750".

Fine as refinished with 95% of the dull blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear with some blue loss on the side plate, front frame rails, with spotting on the center section of the barrel. The various smaller parts retain half of their refinished straw colors overall mostly in the protected areas. The grips are very fine with nice checkering and only a couple minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The holster is very good overall with a nice dark redyed black color on the front and clear distinct markings on the back. The belt loop and stitching are intact. A unique Krieghoff Commercial "P" code Luger pistol.