[mrerick]

Hi, This is most likely a Russian Capture / East German rework.

It is a mix of parts with different origins. The presence of the over stampings indicate that this was matched by the East German arsenal during the rework process. As such, it's likely a complete gun as reworked, with matching magazine.

There are a subset of Luger collectors that focus on these reworked guns.

- The S/42 and Crown N tell me it's a commercial model made by Mauser (right?) but the serial number has been x'd out and restamped.

- The Crown over N barrel is a commercial barrel. It was not original to the gun.

- Need to see the proof marks on the front right of the receiver.

- The S/42 toggle is a Mauser toggle. It's contemporary with the 1938 receiver. These should have military proof marks on them.

The last two digits on the old AND new serial number match the numbers on the rest of the gun.

- Except for the barrel, this is probably mostly a 1938 Mauser. The takedown lever is an East German replacement.

What does the restamping mean (who did it and why?)

- They were added during the rework process as the parts were matched.

Also, what does the scripted letter "u" refer to in the front?

- It's part of the original serial number.

Finally, it's not for sale but does anybody have an idea of it's worth? Thanks in advance.

- These were imported in fair numbers about a decade ago. At that time they sold for $375-$450. Today, probably $500-600 for an average one. Your's is particularly nice, and would probably bring more from a collector focused on these Lugers.

Marc