Swiss rework
 

I have a Swiss rework that was captured by a medic in WWII. I was told it is a VONO rework, but the markings are a little different than what is covered in the book Lugers at Random. It is a DWM gun with the Swiss starburst. But under the barrell is 7.65, an Eagle/N proof, and then an Eagle over J, it then says "M.V.Oller Z.M." or "M.VOLLER Z.M."

Can anyone tell me about this gun? I assume the writing under the barrel explains where it was re-worked...?

I'm hoping you'll tell me this is a rare and desirable variation ;)

VONO stands for "Von Nordheim". Your piece is a re-work from another source. There were several. The VONO variation should have a script "Vono" over the chamber. A "true" VONO rework in excellent condition, according to the poorly accurate book by Aarron, is pegged at $3K.

John Walter, in "The Luger Book" (1986) lists M.V. Oller as a gunsmith in Zella-Mehlis, Thuringia. He notes the report of a replacement 9mm P-08 barrel with this mark, and the mark also on some single-shot dropping-block rifle actions. Nothing more is known to Walter.

--Dwight

Thanks so much for the helpful information

hi, I'm a bit surprised that a Swiss Luger has been captured during wwII because Switzerland was neutral during the war and none of our soldier did participate to any battle. Please let me know if I'm wrong
Bye