1917 DWM with 2 S/N's (not years)?
 

Hello everyone. This is my first post, and hopefully I put it in the correct spot. Disclaimer... I know nothing about Lugers! So, here is the story. I was given this 1917 DWM with holster and belt. I field stripped it, and confirmed all matching numbers (except the magazine). The original S/N is 4831, BUT someone overstamped it with a 6633. The overstamp is only in one location, on the left side of the frame behind the take down lever. Have any of you ever experienced this before? My first thought was that it was issued out, returned, re-S/N'd, and then re-issued. I appreciate any information on the topic. (oh, and the usual what do you think the estimated value is, once I put up pictures, etc....) As soon as my wife gets done making dinner, she will shrink down my pics so that I can post them (I are not that puter smart!!!)

follow up pics
 

Here are the pics

I have seen this - you can crop the photos but this forum software will resize them for you.
I just saw your pictures - what number is on the barrel, underneath?

I would guess, one of four possibilities

1. Re-issue by east germany
2. possible, but doubtful that the upper slide was replaced at a depot or armory
3. post WW1 replacement for sale to the public, this was done by many private firms
4. done post war by bob the gunsmith

:)

Ed

The numbers under the barrel are 4831 (on both barrel and receiver with proof marks), and a 8,82. I hope that answers what you asked...

I guess my next question for the educated masses is, do I have a shooter or a collector?

The condition and the over-stamp/mismatch make this pretty much a shooter. It is not without its charm, though. Even breaking an otherwise matching number part would affect its value very little. And, hey, it does not have the common million-dollar chip on the left grip!

As an aside, the buckle is incorrectly installed on the belt. The short tab with the holes in it goes on the inside of the belt, not facing outward.

sweet. Thanks for the info, it is more than I knew yesterday.
Alanint, I will get that switched around. The buckle is also broke on the inside so it is just for show anyways. Hey, I am not complaining for the price of free....

If you do plan to shoot it, first break it down for a good inspection, cleaning, and lube. Youtube has some good videos for that. Stick with std. pressure ammo with FMJ.