This is a very rare example of an early DWM Model 1900 Luger pistol that was manufactured for Mexico and issued to the Mexican Army. As noted this rare Luger has the unique roll marking of "EJERCITO MEXICANO" on the left side of the frame, indicating this pistol was owned/issued by the Mexican Army. This is an extremely rare example, as only one other example has ever been documented, and we also brought it to auction. That Luger was serial number "12772" with this example being serial number "12788", clearly indicating that there was a small group of these pistols produced as an early sales sample to entice the Mexican Government to purchase more pistols and rifles from the DWM factory. Correctly numbered as a commercial Luger, it has the full serial number (12788) stamped on the underside of the barrel and the frame, and the last two or three digits of the serial number stamped on the various other parts. The front toggle is marked with the "DWM" monogram, and the pistol is absent of any firing or acceptance proofmarks. It has all the early features such as the dished toggles with toggle lock, recessed breechblock, 4 3/4 inch fast tapered barrel, grip safety and no stock lug. It has the first pattern safety area with the unmarked safety area still retaining its bright polished lower area. This specific pistol has been factory fitted with a hold open device which has been found on some early Lugers. These Model 1900 pistols were the first true Luger pistols manufactured by DWM and can be found in the 2,000-19,000 serial number range, with this example being produced in the middle of the production run. They had hand fitted parts with the high polish rust blue finish with the straw colored small parts and checkered walnut grips. The grips are numbered "88" on the back side of each panel, and it is fitted with an unmarked polished metal magazine with a unmarked wooden base.

Fine with 75% of the original blue finish remaining with only minor edge and high spot wear. At one time there was some type of crest over the chamber area, which has now been removed with the blue finish in that area professionally restored. The smaller parts retain 50% of their straw colors overall with slightly more in the protected areas. The grips are in fine condition with distinct checkering on both sides with some minor nicks in the checkering on the right side. There are two larger pressure dents in the grips; one on the right rear side and the other at the top of the left grip. This Luger has all matching numbers (magazine and firing pin not numbered).