Just thought I would post this for information purposes.
I recently was finally able to purchase a decent Luger with all matching numbers, even the grips and the magazine have the correct numbers. The overall finish is not perfect but I assume it to be original. Evidently the gun was poorly stored, perhaps in a holster while it was still damp or perhaps in someones personal storage.
The gun is overall, what I would consider good condition, it seems to be mechanically sound and I believe it to be serviceable even though it does have some minor rust problems. Most of the rust is confined to the exterior and is mostly just small pitting with just a couple of areas on the left side that detract from the appearance. There is some minor pinpoint pitting in the barrel but the lands and grooves look to be sharp and clear.
I was able to purchase the gun for less than $700 after some negotiating. The gentleman I bought it from had a couple of others that were in better condition but the prices rose with the condition, so I took the one I could best afford. Around this area, lugers have gotten extremely expensive. Most dealers are selling rough ones for $900 and go up from there. I have seen a couple of mixed numbered ones that sell for around $600, but they are not common.
I feel like I got a decent deal considering what guns are going for these days. Just thought I would share this with those that are looking for affordable lugers, to encourage them to keep beating the bushes as decent finds are still available.
I've attempted to add a couple of image files, but not sure they are being included, if not I have uploaded a couple of images of the gun at:
http://forum.lugerforum.com/lfupload/barrs_s42_lft..jpg
http://forum.lugerforum.com/lfupload/barrss_s42_rt..jpg
I would welcome any comments from the forum as to their opinions on the condition of this piece. Thanks, Robarr