[Mauser720]

Rob -

I am a relatively new member of this forum, and I am not an "expert" as are many of the other members. So please take that into consideration when I respond to your post.

First, this Luger does not have matching numbers. The parts which do have two numbers on them, should all be "71" which is the last two digits of the serial number "971." In the case where the "98" is crossed off, and "71" stamped under it, this means the numbers were "forced" (probably at an arsenal) to match. Either way, the lack of matching numbers on the pistol does lower the value. Is the low serial number "971" a factor which might increase the value? I don't know. Let someone else comment on that.

Second, how much of the original finish is still on the pistol? Does it still have its original finish? If it has been refinished (meaning re-blued) this detracts from the value. Get your nose down close to the metal, and smell it. Does it have that smell which is so typical of a do-it-yourself cold blue? If this gun has a beautiful all over blue, and mismatched numbers, this is also a "red flag". Refinishing or "touch up" cold bluing detracts from the value.

Third, check out the bore. Is it badly pitted. Frosted? Is it clean? Are the lands and grooves sharp? Since it already has mismatched numbers, it probably has been around a while. And you should not expect a perfect bore. But it is better to have one that is still in good usable condition, unless you never plan to shoot it. Make sure it's empty, and operate the toggle. Does it stay back when the magazine is empty? Operate the safety. Does it work? etc., etc.

Based on the limited information you have provided, and in my humble opinion, it probably is worth $589.00. But I'm such a "tight wad" that I'd offer $575.00.

See what some of the "experts" on this forum think though.

GO CORNHUSKERS!

Mauser720 - Ron