This is a beautiful example of a very early DWM Model 1900 Swiss military contract Luger with the "E" prefix serial number. As discussed in Fred Datig's monogram "The Swiss Variations" (pg.27), known "E" pistols fall in a range of "E588" to "E735", with the majority of known examples having been Swiss arsenal restamped/over stamped with "A" suffix numbers. This pistol retains its original 7.65 mm caliber chambering, the 4 7/8 inch rapid taper barrel, old style long frame with the flat mainspring and no stock lug, early dished toggles with the toggle lock, recessed flat breechblock, and grip safety. This pistol also still retains the original narrow trigger. The top of the chamber area has the "Swiss Cross" in sunburst crest with the DWM scroll monogram on the front toggle link. The left side of the barrel extension is stamped with the small Swiss Cross and "Cross/V" control or firing proof of Herr Vogelsang, the Swiss inspector at the DWM factory, and a small Swiss Cross firing proof. The full serial number is stamped on the underside of the barrel, and the last two or three digits of the serial number are stamped on all the various small parts and inside the grips. It is complete with one original Swiss pattern, nickel plated magazine with the unnumbered wooden Swiss base and a Swiss-style brown leather holster marked "M.PLUSS/38/BELLACH" on the back and "+/SZ" inside the flap, with a shoulder strap.

Very fine as possibly arsenal refurbished, showing 97% Swiss armory style blue, a bit of high edge wear, light handling marks and spotting. 75% of the straw colors are present, with the remainder turned bright and showing light spotting. The grips are also very fine, with some scattered dings. The holster is very good, with some cracks, scuffs and verdigris buildup. Mechanically excellent.