Per the included consignor statements, this pistol was the property of Major (ret) Thomas Rostkowski of the United States Air Force. Per the supplied narrative, it was in the 1950s when Rostkowski obtained the pistol, which he states was a war trophy taken from Germany following WWII; "the country was awash with pistols. The German Army had taken the pistols of every country they defeated and issued them to their own troops. In turn our GIs took them from the Germans". He notes that he let a number of impressive pistols pass by in those days, but made a point to hold onto this Roth-Steyr because of the very low serial number. The exact date and location of capture is not recorded, though chances to score a trophy pistol were plentiful in those days. This very high condition example is dated "Wn (eagle) 9" on the back, with "WAFFENFABRIK STEYR" on top of the barrel rib and a set of fixed sights. Fitted with a set of ribbed hardwood grips with an unmarked unit disc on the right side.

Excellent, with 90% plus original blue finish, showing some light rear grip strap browning, edge wear, and handling marks overall. The grips are very fine, with a few light dings and dents. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional Roth-Steyr pistol with a history, a low single digit serial number, and a condition that would be a difficult combination to beat.