This is an example of a very scarce Steyr-Mannlicher Model 1900 pistol. This was probably one of Mannlicher's most successful and elegant handguns, that featured a robust blow-back operated system, that proved to not be very strong but also very powerful. It was patented in 1899 and was actually produced form 1901-1905, with approximately 10,000 produced. Although never officially adopted by the Austro-Hungarian Army it was never the less used by many Austro-Hungarian and German Officers in WWI. It used a semi-delayed blow back mechanism that fires a fairly powerful handgun cartridge listed in Austria as the 7.63mm Mannlicher and in Germany as the 7.65 mm Mannlicher. These pistols were so well liked that ammunition for them was actually produced right up until WWII. It has a unique internal magazine that loads via stripper clips through the top of the action. The left side of the frame is marked: "WAFFENFABRIK/STEYR" with the right side marked: "SYSTEM/MANNLICHER". The left side of the barrel, breech and underside of the frame are all stamped with serial number 344. The left rear side of the barrel is stamped with a standing Lion/BP for the Birmingham Proof house. It has checkered wood grips and a lanyard loop on the base.

Excellent with 95% plus of the blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear. The trigger and hammer retain their in the white finish. The grips are both in very fine condition with nice original distinct checkering overall with a light scratch on the upper area of the right grip. Mechanically excellent. A scarce early production Steyr Mannlicher semi-automatic pistol.