My instance also has a number inside the sear cover, single digit "5", which has nothing to do with s/n, and sits at a different location.
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Old catalog lists "Reconditioned Lugers". It's interesting to read what Stoeger offered in 1939:
Because of the thousands of re-built and refinished Luger Pistols which have flooded the market and many of which have been spuriously offered as new merchandise at prices actually less than factory new cost, we have decided to offer herewith a line of reconditioned Lugers. We offer these for those who are desirous of obtaining the benefits of Luger Pistol, but are not in a position to pay the present very high price which present factory costs, import duties, excise and other taxes make necessary.
All Luger Pistols offered by us are thoroughly inspected by experts and tested, thus giving the purchaser assurance of a satisfactory weapon.
The 7.65 mm Pistols are furnished only with 98 mm (3 5/8 inch barrel) and 9 mm only with 100 mm barrel (3 3/4 inch barrel) .
The following pistols are available in either caliber 7.65 mm or 9 mm as indicated.
Luger pistols, Grade 1, refinished, reblued, new grips, new barrels, same as new. Cal. 7.65 mm, Price, $37.50. Cal. 9 mm, Price $45.00
Luger pistols, Grade 2, slightly used, but in first-class mechanical condition, barrels very good. Price, 7.65 mm only $30.00
Luger pistols, Grade 3, in good servicable condition. Price, Cal 7.65 mm or 9 mm $27.50
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$37.50 of that time is equivalent of today's $750, using sterling silver price as a reference. I bet the price is similar, even after 70 years ??
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