Manufactured in the 1930s, this is one of a limited number of examples of the Turkish police contract Luger pistols. Only around 750 were manufactured and delivered on the contract, and the number seen on the market today falls in the single digits. While many Luger variants were released to the commercial market at the end of their service lives, research has indicated that the Lugers still in Turkish hands in the 1980s were subjected to a mass destruction order, with very few recorded survivors. This exact pistol, serial number 61, is prominently pictured in detail on page 624 of the noted book "Pistole Parabellum, Volume II" by Gortz and Sturgess. Another example of one of these rare Turkish Lugers (previously sold by RIA, auction 72 lot 3437) is pictured on page 498 of Hallock and Van de Kant's "The Mauser Parabellum 1930-1946". Fixed sights, with the "TC" monogram of the Republic of Turkey on top of the chamber, the Mauser banner on the front toggle link, German "crown/crown/U" marks on the extension and breechblock, and "eagle/63" on the right side of the extension and frame. The right side of the extension is marked "Emniyet Isleri/Umum Mudurlugu" (General Directorate of Security Affairs), and the extractor and upper safety position are marked "ates" and "emniyet". External visible serial numbers are matching overall, with "47" on the nickel finished alloy base magazine. The included rare German made Turkish contract leather holster has the same "TC" monogram as the pistol on the flap above the "Emniyet Isleri/Umum Mudurlugu" General Directorate marking and serial number "91" (possibly an upside down 6) on the front, and contains a combination takedown tool and cleaning rod inside the holster.

Fine, retains 40% original blue finish with smooth gray patina on the balance, some light pitting visible on the sideplate, and sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. Grips are also fine with some light handling marks and mostly defined checkering. Mechanically excellent. Included holster is fine. One of only two examples we have ever offered at auction!