I need some help on my (first) Luger Purchase.
 

I recently purchased a 1917 (stamped on the chamber) 9mm, DWM Luger with a 4" barrel. I Probably paid more than it was worth but it was from a friend. I was just wondering what I have. I have read "The Luger Story" which I found very informative. However, a lot of questions remain unanswered. Can you knowledgeable gentlemen shed a little light on what I have? All of the numbers match with the S/N except of the magazines (2). The serial number is 20xxC. I found no numbers however on the Walnut grips, only some letters. The markings on the right side of the barrel are a Crown/T/Bar, Crown/S, Crown/S and a bird of some sort. There is no safety grip but there is a stock lug. I wound gestimate the condition to be at least 80+% bluing with some minor pitting on the end of the barrel. The holster is in resonably good condition, dated 1918 with Kem Klager & Cie as well as Neu-Ulm. Any guesses on their value? Any information would be greatfully appreciated.

What might be better is you surf some of the larger dealers and see what they are asking for guns similar to yours...try www.simpsonltd.com. Welcome to the Forum and if we can help ask away...pictures always help in this type of a question

I appreciate the information. I have found this Forum very informative. It seems like most of you guys are very knowledgeable on anything having to do with the Luger. I am impressed. Thanks again. I will take a look at that hyperlink.

Howard is on track, I use the dealer price lists as an approx., and then look on gunbroker.com and auctionarms.com But the most important thing, is that you have a luger!

I was talking to Ralph Shattuck a couple of years ago, and he said, hey, if the gun is in nice shape, maybe you paid too much, but in three years, you'll have gotten your money back as an investment / value!!

Your 1917 was made in that year by DWM, and was the 42K batch of them. The first 10K were made without a serial number suffix, then "a" suffix, etc, till you got to "c".

Ed