This is a fine example of a scarce Mannlicher Model 1901 transitional self-loading pistol serial number "430". The Mannlicher pistols and later rifles were all designed by Ferdinand Von Mannlicher, an exceptional early mechanical engineer who teamed with the Steyr factory to produce all of his rifle and pistols from the late 1890s on. These models use a blowback operated design that proved to be very robust and durable. The unique feature is that it had an internal, 8 shot magazine, that was loaded via stripper clips through the top of the pistol. The 1901 design was one of Mannlicher's most successful handguns, with approximately 10,000 produced 1901 to 1903. Although tested by both the Austro-Hungarians Army and the U.S. Ordnance, it was officially passed over by the U.S, However, it was very favorably used by Austria's officer corps. The Model 1901 is chambered for the Austrian 7.63mm Mannlicher Auto cartridge, and the barrel is fitted with a high thick, fixed blade front sight with a fixed notch rear sight mounted on top of the rear edge of the barrel. The left side of the frame is marked: "WAFFENFABRIK/STEYR" with the right side marked "SYSTEM MANNLICHER". It is serial numbered "430" on the underside of the frame extension, the left side of the barrel and chamber area. It is fitted with standard checkered walnut grips with a lanyard loop on the butt of the frame.

Fine condition with 85% of the blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear with thinning on the grip straps mixed with a gray patina. The smaller parts are all in the white from the factory. On the right side of the pistol along the very top edge of the barrel rib that are numerous scattered patches of light pin-prick type erosion which extends on the forward section of the barrel. Mechanically excellent. The grips are also in fine condition with nice distinct checkering on both sides with the left side showing more wear across the tops of the checkering with a light pressure dent on the upper right side above the grip screw.