This is a rare early Simson & Co prototype semi-automatic pistol serial number "2" pistol. We actually sold the original unnumbered prototype in our last auction with this unique example being an "improved" design with the reinforced frame area with the theorized hold open latch. The original pistol was developed circa 1928/29 in the hopes of developing as a replacement for the German Luger, however that would never come to fruition. During the Weimar era, Germany was only allowed to repair and or rebuild both pistols and rifles for the military and police units in Germany based on the restrictions of the Treaty of Versailles. The only company that was allowed to do that was the Simson & Co. Obviously with their close ties to the German Government they developed this pistol as a potential rival to the German Luger, anticipating some future military contracts. However that was not to be with the rise of Hitler and the National Socialist State with their anti-Semitic ideology, forever doomed Simson & Co. It is estimated that probably not more than 10-15 were actually manufactured with only 2-3 actual pistol still surviving today. It is a well made, all machined pistol with checkered walnut grips. It was highly influenced by the standard German Luger, as it has the same style of grip angle as a Luger and a slightly modified German Luger magazine. This design uses a bottom magazine release where the Luger magazine release is on the side. All these features would have made training and conversion to this design much easier. It is only stamped with a small asterisk type proof and serial number "2" on the left side of the frame. Two large reinforcing plates have been welded on each side of the frame. The left rear side of the frame has the large rotating safety lever, with the frame hand inscribed with the word "Sicher" under the rear area. In the inside, front area of the trigger guard loop is a small serrated takedown lever. The top of the slide has a set of fixed sights with a short extractor mounted directly on top behind the barrel. As noted this rare pistol comes with one slightly modified magazine with an aluminum base with a single Eagle/6 Simson proof. This rare pistol was briefly described and pictured on page 17 of the Arms Gazette magazine dated December 1973

Very good as period, most likely factory, modified with 60% of the dull blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear overall, with the two aforementioned steel reinforcing plate welded on each side of the frame. The grips are in very fine condition with distinct checkering on both sides, showing minor handling marks. A very interesting and historic pre-WWII Simson & Co. prototype pistol serial number "2".