This is a very rare example of the large frame Dreyse semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9 mm Parabellum. The company that manufactured this was Rheische Metallwaaren & Maschinenfabrik, later in 1936 during the rise of the Nazi in power the company name was shortened to just Rheinmetall. The company is best known for its first small pocket pistol, the model 1907, chambered in 7.65 mm with the second design being chambered in 6.35 mm. This 9 mm example is actually an enlarged version of the first model pistol however, it was termed the "3rd" model and manufactured circa 1910-1915. Very few were actually manufactured with all their production shifting to more pressing wartime work during WWI. This design has some very unique/strange features; one is that to cock the pistol you have to pull back on the cocking knobs on the rear of the pistol and pull upward to disengage the recoil spring which in-turn allows the bolt to be retracted. To load the pistol you then push this cocking arm forward and push it down into the top of the receiver to reengage the recoil spring. Some what unusual but very unique and short lived, makes this a very rare and desirable early automatic pistol. The left side is marked: "Rheische Metallwaaren & Maschinenfabrik/AGT. SOMMERDA." with the right side marked "DREYSE". The left side of the cocking arm, barrel, and frame are all stamped with a single "Crown/N" commercial proof. It is fitted with a set of checkered, black hard rubber grips, with the intertwined company initials of "RMF". The under side of the cocking arm, the bolt, and barrel are all stamped with serial number "1344" and the back side of each grip panel is scratched with number "44". The base of the magazine is stamped with "111 3II", which may indicate a police unit marking of some type.

Very fine as partially refinished (left side of frame has had a marking removed and refinished) with the balance retaining 90% of the original blue finish overall with only very minor edge wear. The markings are clear and distinct. The grips are in very fine condition with nice distinct checkering and markings on each side with a minor age crack on the right grip which could be easily repaired. A solid representative example of a super rare, early Dreyse semi-automatic pistol in the desirable 9mm Luger cartridge.