1939 WWII Luger P.08
 

My dad brought this back from Italy in 1944 - 45. I've had it cleaned. Original holster but he carved his initials in the gunstock handles. How much is this thing worth?

Hi Alan, Welcome to the forum. Please post photos, we can't help you without them. Regards, Norm

Normally speaking, initials on gun- and or holsterparts decreases the value. But since you know it is your father who brought the gun back, and carved his initials in the grips, I wouldn't be too worried. It is always nice to have some sort of provenance with a gun.

Initially I was not too amuzed when I saw material that had GI 'property markings' on them, but lately I feel that it is just part of the history and it doesn't bother me that much.

Also, if you have the GI paperwork that would have accompanied bringing back this Luger to the USA, please scan a copy of it too...

Ed Tinker on this board is avidly collecting "bring back stories"... Please contact him if you have one to share:

http://forum.lugerforum.com/showthre...g+back+stories

A word of advice... Do as little as possible to your Luger until you've learned about values what collectors look for in a Luger. Get some penetrating oil that will protect the finish (like Rem Oil at WalMart) and make sure you keep it in a dry place with low humidity. Don't store it in the holster. An inexpensive soft zipper case is better.

Marc

If it is a piece of your Dad's history, then it isn't just a gun, it's a family heirloom and it's priceless! Just my $0.02