This is a very fine example of an early production first sub-variation Mauser "K" date code military Luger semi-automatic pistol. Representing one of the early stages of active German rearmament under the Nazi regime, these early Lugers were assigned letter codes instead of the conventional dating patterns used during World War One and later in World War Two. Being in the inventory at the start of hostilities, many of these pistols were exposed to heavy war duty, leaving survivors scarce in any condition. Fixed sights, with the "K" date code on the chamber and an "S/42" marked toggle link, with the "S" being the very early "script" pattern lettering, as opposed to the "block" lettering seen on most Mauser codes. The "script S" is repeated on a number of parts, with a set of "eagle" firing proofs on the barrel, extension and breech block, and the "O|37" proofs on the extension. Small parts are straw finished, with niter blue pins and springs, checkered grips, and a nickel finished magazine with a "block S" marked, non-matching alloy base. The holster is black leather dated 1934 and marked for Auwaerter & Bubeck of Stuttgart on the rear, with a brass tipped steel cleaning rod and an "eagle/63" takedown tool secured inside the flap, along with a tag reading "Arnold/1.Komp. Panzer-Rgt.1"; while not explicitly documented, "Arnold" may have been a member of the 1st Regiment of the 1st Panzer Brigade of the 1st Panzer Division, one of Nazi Germany's earliest tank units. Formed in 1935, the 1st Division participated in many of the early invasions, including Austria, Czechoslovakia, Poland and France, and was heavily engaged on the Eastern Front. At war's end, the 1st made a break westward, and they surrendered to the Americans in Bavaria.

Very fine, with 75% plus of the original blue finish, showing a mixed gray patina on the grip straps, bright edge wear, mild spotting and light handling marks. 60% original straw colors are remaining on the small parts, with some light spotting and areas of gray patina, and the grips are fine, with some dents and stains. The holster is very fine, with some stress lines, scuffing, and a bit of loose/altered stitching around the straps for the cleaning rod. Mechanically excellent.