Richard,
I appreciate Pete's endorsement. I have had some experience with 1899 Preproduction Lugers (not all good!). There were only approximately 30 to 32 of this series of early Lugers produced, of which there are only a little over a dozen whose whereabouts are known. Also, there are at least 4 fakes known (I have seen two). If you are willing, please contact me directly at
rwood1@elp.rr.com to set up further discussion. As a start, a serial number and photos will be needed. Based on the results of that start, I would be willing to do what I can to arrange a hands on examination.