Trying to date a Luger from before 1910 (?) in Finland
 

Hi everyone,

I am new to this forum and I came across it as I was looking for information for dating a 7.65 Luger Parabellum. The gun has a matching serial number: 7416 on barrel and frame with what appears to be a crown with letter N below it and atop the chamber the DWM letters. The letter N is also on the frame. I understand this is a pre-1910 piece. The weapon is in good condition with original holster and magazine and no rust.

The really interesting thing is that the piece has originally belonged to a prominent land-owner here in the middle parts of Finland, who may have had connections with the Jaeger movement during the period of WWI. As the Jaeger were trained in Germany the piece may have found its way to Finland with them when they returned in 1917 just before the Finnish War of Liberty/Civil War. If there is any potential in finding out the story behind the piece, it would be great!

If any one has any information to share on either of the aspects, dating or digging up history, I would most grateful.

-Larry

Larry,

We really need pictures. Both sides and the top. Close-ups of any markings.

FN

Hello Lauri, and welcome to the forum!

As Norm mentions, we need to get a look at it to be of much help.

The Crown/N indicates a commercially "Nitro" proofed pistol.

While there were a few of these made very early for commercial sale and export, there are a large number that were sold and exported by DWM after World War I.

Pictures will help identify the era of manufacture.

Is there a script letter under the frame serial number on the front of the trigger guard?

Marc