British Proofs
 

My 1916 DWM has British Proofs on the right side of the barrel, receiver and rail. Does that have any impact on the value?

Yes, just about any mark added after the gun was originally issued reduces the value. Collectors by and large do not like to buy guns that are altered in any way. Curt

As Curt says..It might not help value. On an otherwise good pistol..it might not affect it that much.

Is this pistol missing the takedown spring?

My view is a little bit different. On super nice C&R (e.g. 98% original Luger), non-affiliated marks of this size at this position cause bigger damage on value. On lower condition,,,,, for example, on 70% or 80% condition C&R, damage is smaller, but still negative. On 50%, 40% condition,,, probably does not matter anymore. The lower the gun condition, the less importance of each individual issue. It's much more sensitive on higher condition C&R.

thanks to all of you, appreciate your time and responses.

Jerry, astute observation, based on the picture, however the spring is still there but reading your comment I immediately looked up and didn't see the spring end---panic. As I picked the gun up though I could see it was just shadow. took the TD lever out anyway to make sure.

Alvin, This is NOT a minty piece (and I have a lot of trouble estimating the amount of bluing on them anyway) and I think your assessment is well worth considering.

Thanks again fellows.

Gary

British Proof
 

I'd earlier taken the view that a later addition (British Proof) would adversely effect the value of my Krieghoff, although now I'm advised by a reputable forearms auctioneer that if I'd sought to sell any luger, other than Imperial it would have to be proofed before sale off the Island & into Europe.
Having seen some extensive British proofing with tons etc.. stamped on many visible part I'd be somewhat deterred, however, I was extremely relieved to have the most unobtrusive single proof strike under one grip & now have a pistol that would be far more marketable should I choose to sell (unlikely).
I have no plan to proof any of my 'left behind' lugers. This one was found in the UK & needed the proof before it could cross the water to me It would, however, seem more sympathetic proofing is available if so requested.
Brendan
http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/i...g/DSC00150.jpg

Trade you guns........

Gary