This is an example of a very fine and rare example of one of the early Mauser, "K" date S/42 code military Luger pistols. These "K Date" Lugers represent the very first true German Army contract pistol and consequently they have an extremely low survival rate as all saw extensive use throughout the war with many going to the Eastern front. Examples in good or better condition are among the most desirable and most difficult Nazi Luger pistols to obtain. This series of Luger pistols were produced in four different sub-variations with distinctive markings in each sub-variation. This one was produced in the second group, (serial numbers 1,700-5,250) with a total production of 3,550 out of the total 10,930 K-date Luger pistols produced and has the mixed script and gothic markings on the various parts. It has the standard Script "K" date mark on top of the chamber area with the Gothic "S" in front of the script "S/42" markings on top of the front toggle. As noted this example will have the script "S" proof on all the parts intermixed with a gothic "S" on some parts. It has the standard 1934 double-boxed "O37" acceptance stamps along with an early Mauser Eagle firing proof located on the right side of the barrel extension. The Luger has the standard safety and extractor markings and is fitted with a "Type 1 Army" magazine with a nickel-plated body and aluminum base stamped with, "5549/h" over an "Eagle/63" acceptance proof.

Very fine with 85% plus original blue finish overall with wear on the frame rails, side plate, muzzle and thinning on the grip straps. The various small parts retain 60% of their original straw colors. The grips are also in very fine condition showing nice original checkering overall with minor, honest wear across the tops of the checkering and a few handling marks. This scarce Luger is completely original and has matching numbers on all of the parts except the magazine as noted above. Certainly a major, key example missing out of most military Luger collections.