1936?
 

i have just uncovered a luger from my grandparents attic. storey is he brought it back from wwII and has been sitting in a trunk ever since. any idea on history or value would be appreciated. thx

Hi, And welcome to the forum...

Looks like it could be all matching and in original finish. If you haven't already, please check to make sure that it isn't loaded.

Would be a good idea to at least get it oiled with corrosion preventive gun oil (something like RemOil or a Hoppes product - you can find it at WalMart). Dont let the oil soak into the grips.

It's hard to judge things from your photos. Take some pictures outdoors and in indirect light (shade) without the flash. Get the entire side of both sides, and closeups on the markings.

You'll find disassembly instructions on this site. Be very careful removing the grips, especially the left one.

Does the magazine match the pistol's serial number? Get a picture of the base and any other markings

Value range could be $1000 (if non-matching or refinished) to $2000 (all matching with magazine matching with a high percentage of original finish).

Don't worry about the red oxide. It can be gently removed with well oiled "0000" or finer steel wool or bronze wool.

Check to see if your grandfather also had papers from his officer that authorized him to return to the US with his war prize.

Your pistol was made by Mauser in 1936. The entire serial number (including a letter suffix) will be on the front of the frame above the trigger guard. "1956?"

Marc

Rob, you lucky dawg! The closest thing to this ever found in any of my family's attics was a 50 Reichmarks paper note that Uncle Charlie had...or maybe the WWII G.I. sleeping bag of Uncle Bob's. I think the sleeping bag was stuffed with lead wool, it was so heavy.

Congratulations on this find of a wonderful family heirloom!

David Parker

my grandfather has long since passed away. my grandmother was going to turn the pistol over to the police but i was able to talk her out of it. grandfather was a doctor in the canadian military and somehow came upon the gun. it hasnt been touched in probably 60 yrs. was stored in a trunk with some old fur coats. all original. no restorations done.

Decent WW2 luger, congrats!


Ed