Unit-Marked 1918 Erfurt
 

I have an opportunity to buy a 1918 Erfurt, with a unit marking on the frontstrap. The gun is matching except for the grips and mag (which match). Finish is 80%, straw is 50%. Bore is decent. Being a 1918 pistol, isn’t it unusual that there is a unit marking on it? It looks legit. Patina is the same as the rest of the pistol. Price is $1800. Would appreciate opinions. Thanks!

Seems a bit high priced for the condition. Bill

Hi Bob,
Not all 80%'s are equal, you had better post photos if you want a meaningful opinion.
Norm

Understood. The price is a bit high. Does the fact that it’s a unit-marked 1918 pistol add that much to the value?

That pretty much depends on the collectors taste. To me I don't care whether they are marked or not. To others it would probably add some amount. Bill

What's the unit?

Here's the unit mark; 142.R.11.16
Anyone know what it means?

Saw a 1917 Erfurt for sale at a gun show this past weekend, all matching including mag and maybe same finish condition as you describe for $1600 not unit marked though. I bet I could get it a bit cheaper. Anyway prices being what they are now $1800 maybe a bit high but might seem reasonable in the near future.

My guess is the 142nd Infantry Regiment, company 11, weapon #16.

I agree.

Not many 1918 Lugers were unit marked. It would be nice to see clear, sharp and detailed pictures of the gun in question. The frame serial number and suffix letter might tell us something.

I also think $1800 is too high based on the OP's description.

I don't have any close-up pics, unfortunately. I do appreciate everyone's feedback, however. Thanks!

I remember in the early 60s, collectors were turning up their noses at unit marks.
Also '41 BYFs with black grips....
I like unit marks just out of interest.
Fickle we can be.

I like proper unit marks as well ... IMO the markings add verifiable history to a gun as well as value. :rockon:

Again, thanks, all, for the great comments. I’m going to make a play for the pistol. There’s just something about it that speaks to me. If I end-up buying the pistol, I’ll be sure to post pictures on this thread. Take care!

Well, I bought the Luger. Please let me know what you think.
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For some reason the pictures got cropped. Sorry. I'll try this again....

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It may be just the pictures but it looks refinished. It appears to be very shiny. Bill

Bill, I agree. I also think the left grip is a replacement. The fit and the wear doesn't match the right grip.

I second the notion that it’s refinished.