New to me 1917 DWM
 

Picked up my second WWI Luger this weekend and wanted to see what you guys think of it.

I believe it to be original finish and all numbers match.
It has one numbers matching mag.

Would anyone care give me a rough estimate on the value of this rig?

I forgot to photograph some areas, I can add those photos tonight.

Thanks for your knowledge,
-Miles

More photos.

Looks good.
Is the holster marked?

Top

Forgot to include holster pictures.
SN written on the tool flap does not match my pistol or the spare mag.
I know nothing about it so please enlighten me.
I have reached out to Jerry to get a price on fixing the damaged strap.

Very nice, your holster strap can be restored by Jerry Burney (Lugerholsterrepair). His work is highly recommended by forum members.

Is it possible this medal belonged to the vet that captured the rig?
I am assuming that Rn Stephens is a persons name?

https://picclick.co.uk/Ww1-Royal-Nav...125140018.html

My guess is it has been restored. Especially the straw. The grip straps also look too new. Would need to see it in hand to be sure. Bill

There appears to be some sort of corrosion on the upper part of the rear grip strap. (on top of the finish) I will try to get a picture tonight.

Bill may be right, as the finish is certainly better than usually seen. Grip straps, barrel, etc, look almost too good. But if we're wrong it is definitely a nice piece. I'll take a WAG at $2k or just a bit more, IF original finish.

I will post pictures of the finish wear tonight. It is certainly not perfect and I don't think my pictures represent the wear accurately.
If this was refinished how could they replicate the halos in the barrel SN?

Thanks to everyone who has replied!

The halos are problematic, but not impossible to boost. I believe that it involves the use of an air brush and would be the final touch of skullduggery.
Other normally suspect areas (muzzle, GESICHERT, toggle pin, etc.) look good.
But your point is good and I'll guess it is legit.
dju

If there is anything specific I can photograph for your eyes please let me know.

OK, how about the numbers and suffix on the front of the frame, the left side numbers also showing an inch or so of barrel for finish comparison. Muzzle close-up and also the rear showing the lanyard loop and rear toggle link impact area.
But you have it in hand. Does the finish seem even throughout, and are there any signs of rust pitting that is blued over?

dju

Here is the second round of photos.

"Does the finish seem even throughout, and are there any signs of rust pitting that is blued over?"

The finish is very even throught although the side plate may be a little lighter as I have seen on others. (it is numbered to the gun inside and out)

I see absolutely no signs of any damage, rust or otherwise, being blued over.

I have handled many many Lugers both known original and restored and I firmly believe this one to be original.

Looks like a nice one. Congratulations.

Do you have our FAQ document? It's quite useful.

Just click on FAQ at the top of page. it will lead you to the post that has the PDFs.

Marc

Yes, I read it before buying. It has helped me tremendously!

Thanks,
-Miles

I can't see any reason to think it is not a very nice original. Maybe sharper eyes and more experience than mine will disagree, however.
Nice gun!
I threw out the figure of $2k earlier. What do you value it at?
dju

I’m not entirely sure. I found it at cabelas priced WAY under 2K.
I don’t think they knew what they had because the prices there are usually unbelievably high.

Saw this on gunbroker so I have no clue what it may go for on there.

-Miles