Among the first Model 1908 Luger pistols acquired for the German military, this Luger shows a number of features that would be altered in later production. It was manufactured without a stock lug or hold-open device (the latter was military retrofitted during its service life, with the traditional externally visible pin and small approval stamp on the right side of the frame), has a blank chamber, "Imperial Eagle" firing proof and two "crown/gothic letter" proofs on the left side of the receiver, and a set of "commercial" pattern serial numbers instead of the more visible "military" pattern on later Lugers. Sights are fixed, with the "DWM" monogram on the toggle link, additional "Imperial Eagle" proofs on the barrel and breech block, "GESICHERT" and "GELADEN" marked safety area and extractor, checkered grips, and a correct pattern non-matching wood base magazine. The front strap is unit marked "98.R.M.G.40." and the back strap is marked "JR981MGK50", for pistol number 50 of the 1st Machine Gun Company of Jager/Infantry Regiment 98. Apart from the magazine, visible numbers are matching. Includes a walnut stand. Provenance: The Klaus Meyer Collection

Fine, retains 70% of the original blue finish and 60% of the original straw colors with the balance having thinned to a smooth grey patina, primarily on the grip straps and high spots, and some scattered small patches of light pitting, mostly around the muzzle. The grips are very good with some scattered minor blemishes and flat spots, and otherwise well-defined checkering. Mechanically excellent.