Manufactured about 1897, this is a fine early production Mauser Model 1896 Fixed Sight Cone Hammer semi-automatic pistol. This example has the desirable early features such as the long extractor, milled panel frame with the raised rear panel on the left side, with the dovetailed firing pin retainer, early wide trigger, and non-reinforced chamber area. The left side of the barrel extension has the "double crown/U" proof, and the chamber is marked "WAFFENFABRIK/MAUSER/OBERNDORF A/N". It has the scarce later style flat milled upper receiver with the fixed rear sight and the standard fixed front sight. It is fitted with 23-groove walnut grips, both correctly numbered on the back sides. A mixed-numbered hardwood shoulder stock is included.