This is a solid example of a very rare Mauser Model 1912/14 prototype semi-automatic pistol, serial number "31" chambered in 9 mm Luger. This pistol design was originally based on the smaller Mauser Model 1910 pistol only scaled up to use the larger 9 mm Luger cartridge. It is estimated that only 100-200 of these pistols were ever manufactured with only a very small number even known to exist today. As an example, the sales records from Hans Tauscher only lists 8 as being sold by him in the U.S. during the 1914-16 time frame. This specific pistol (serial number 31) is not listed in any of the current Mauser reference books, so it may be somewhat new to the market. It has the earlier straight/1910 style grip frame, the solid back strap not cut for a shoulder stock and the fixed front and rear sights. The slide is uniquely hand engraved in three lines: "WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER/OBERNDORF A.N./MAUSER'S PATENT". The serial number "31" is stamped on the frame, slide, barrel, trigger, takedown release, and side plate, and the grips are unnumbered. The magazine is absent. The pistol was finished in a rust blue finish on the major parts including the barrel latch, safety lever, and rear sight. Some internal parts, trigger, spring guide, and magazine release have a Mauser heat blue finish. It is fitted with a one-piece checkered wraparound walnut grip.