This is a fine example of a desirable early production Mauser Model 1896 cone hammer pistol, serial number "878". These early cone hammer are very desirable as they saw considerable use with most having later production design changes. This example has the early long extractor, wide trigger, fully milled frame panels with no markings and the dovetailed firing pin retainer. The chamber is roll marked: "WAFFENFABRIK/MAUSER/OBERNDORF A/N" with the left side stamped with the double Crown over "U" proof mark. The primary serial number (878) is stamped on the rear of the frame and not on the side of the chamber area with matching serial numbers on the internal parts, follower, floorplate and firing pin stop. The replaced bolt stop is stamped with number "14627" which may have been a contract number of some type as this primary serial number of this example falls within the noted range of the Turkish contract pistols. The barrel has the standard inverted "v" front sight with the correct early tangent rear sight that is marked "1-10" (100-1000 meters) with the larger numbers. The butt of the frame is fitted with lanyard loop stud and original lanyard ring. It is fitted with the correct early style, 21 groove, "hollow-back" walnut grips that are numbered and stamped on that back side of each grip with "878" and a capital letter "A". The pistol has a rust blued finish, with bright bolt, straw colors on the trigger. The extractor, rear sight slide, bolt stop, safety lever are heat blued.

Fine with 60% plus of the original blue finish overall showing fading and thinning overall with the balance a gray/brown mixed patina finish. The refinished grips are in very good condition with nice distinct grooves on each side showing minor handling marks and pressure dents in a couple areas. Mechanically excellent. A solid representative example of an early production Mauser Model 1896 cone hammer pistol.