Grip Markings on a 1920 DWM
 

A friend has a 1920 production DWM 9mm. All appears correct, original, and matching, including 2 correct magazines.

Here's the question. On the front gripstrap, it is marked "S.D. VIII" then "S.H." but those last two letters are "x"ed out. Then on the next line, "3.82. AL." These marks run vertically, in the same direction as the grip strap. Any clues?
Thanks for your time.
Doby Pilgrim
Santa Fe, NM

Doby,

This mark is a Unit Designation Mark... the pistol was probably transferred from one unit to another thus accounting for the "X" stamps over the last two letters... I am transferring your question to the Unit Marks forum...

Doby, These are Poiice rather than military unit marking. I does seem rather unusual that a PO8 would have the markings from two different cities. H for Hamburg and D for Dusseldorf. IF you can post a photo of these marking, I'm sure that some of the members could give you an informed opinion as to there originality. TH.

Thanks for the replies. Unfortunately, the owner lives in another city, and doesn't have a digital camera, or even a computer. I'll certainly pass on the information, though.
Doby