My Luger
 

I have recently gotten bit by the Luger Bug! My one and only Luger is one that was manufactured in 1920. All the serial numbers match - the grips are wooden and in good shape as well. On the top of the slide, in fancy scroll engraving are the initials DWM. The front of the grip, the metal section, has the following engraved on it "L.P. Th. 538."I was wondering if anyone could tell me what those initials mean- if anything. Also - I would like to get an approximate value so I can insure this for what it is worth. I realize without a picture, this is difficult - but I at least want to get a ball park figure for insurance purposes.
<img border="0" alt="[jumper]" title="" src="graemlins/jumper.gif" /> :D

I have in my collection 1920 dated DWM L.P.Th. 616 with one matching clip and gun is 98%+ condition, as such I would estimate its value at $15/1600.00....but then again its mine and perhaps I am a bit proud of it.

John, The DWM represents the initials of the manufacturer of this pistol. Deutsch Waffen und Munitionsfabriken. PoliceLuger has undoubtably given you a fairly accurate estimate of value,within a couple of hundred dollars, although much depends on condition. Have you dismantled the pistol and checked the interior numbers? Hope this helps, Jerry Burney

John, the marking on the grip strap seems to indicate that the pistol ended up in police service. This would be confirmed by additions of sear safeties and other such stuff to include gripstrap markings.

The marking L.P.Th.538. may be for Landespolizei Thuringia weapon number 538. Landespolizei translates to State Police. Thuringia was once a German state and may still be today.

I may be way off on this but it seems all the Weimar experts are on sabbatical.