Trying to identify my gun
 

I have inherited and a 9-08 which has the DWM and Nitro stamps but one thing which is unusual about this gun is that many of the normally conspicuous stamped numbers have been hidden like on the bottom of the locking bolt and trigger side plate. Any information about this gun would be appreciated.

Rob

Rob:
Commercial versions of the Luger do have hidden serial numbers, as you describe. Military versions have the conspicuous markings.

BTW, welcome to the Forum.

Thank you Neil, any idea why the markings would not be in the typical places?

They ARE in the typical places for a gun that was intended for commercial sales. Only those designated to fill military contracts were numbered otherwise.
Why? Maybe because it made the gun look cleaner and more attractive to the commercial buyer. Kind of like stamping an American Eagle over the chamber so as to appeal to the US buyer. Or maybe just "because..."
dju

Makes sense. Thank you David

Rob, there are many yrs of commercials, what serial is yours?

Ed

Rob, The commerical placement of markings continued DWM original method started in 1900. The military, in their infinate wisdom, proscribed a diffent method starting in 1910, also with the serialization of additional parts: receiver (barrel extention), trigger bar, hold open, safety lever & bar. TH