The Lugers manufactured by Mauser from the mid 1930's through 1942 are well made pistols that would have been used through World War II. I like them, and would recommend looking for one of them.
There are many variations, some rare, some more common.
The parts on Lugers are mostly numbered to match the serial number on the frame (in front by the trigger guard) and barrel. Those places got the complete number. Other numbered parts got the last 2 digits.
Look for a gun with all of these parts matching. It's the way most guns brought back from Europe would have been maintained.
Refinishing a Luger drops it's interest and value to collectors. You may not care about this, and will find less expensive guns that often were competently done.
You want a military proofed gun, rather than a commercial one. Original finish and grips, or as close as possible to this. Avoid nickel plated and extensively decorated guns.
You should be able to find one of these for around $1000 or less.
A few years ago, the Russians / East Germans sold off their stock of Lugers that had been captured after the way, and used by their police forces. These were sold for less than $500 by importers. Most were poorly refinished, and most have replacement parts and electro-penciled marks to "force match" them. I've seen a few that were very nicely done, and those might be less expensive when they become available.
The better way to ask might be to estimate your budget for a Luger and ask for suggestions on what to look for at that price range...
Marc
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