This is a very scarce example of a Bergmann Model 1896 Number 2 Semi-Automatic Pistol as produced by the firm of V. Charles Schilling in Suhl. Theodore Bergman was a pioneer in developing semi-automatic pistols in Europe in the late 1890s and early 1900s. The magazine is integral to the pistol and is located in front of the trigger and has a magazine cover that swings down. This early pocket model is actually even more rare in that it has the early style folding trigger, which was dropped from the later models. The right side of the pistol has oval shaped logo that depicts a "mountain man" holding a pick behind his back with sun rays showing from behind his back. The top of the oval is marked "Gaggenau," and the lower area is marked "V.C.S. Suhl". The left side of the barrel/receiver area has a "double crown" proofmark followed by the bore diameter "611". The lower side of the frame is marked "PATENT/BREVET/S.G.D.G." The serial number "401" is stamped on the right front side of the frame.

Excellent with 95% plus of the original blue finish, showing areas of brown patina, mild edge wear and light handling marks. Over half of the straw and niter blue finish is present on the small parts, with a bright color and mild spotting on the remainder. The grips are very fine, with some minor wear. Mechanically excellent.