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Unread 03-12-2012, 09:38 PM   #18
mrerick
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Bob, it's hard to judge finish when the photos are taken with a flash. They look much better when taken in natural indirect light.

You'll also get better results if you can use a tripod and trigger it with the self timer.

Looks like you have a nice crisp Mauser "42" code Luger from 1939 in original finish.

I also have a 1939 "42" code that may be similar in finish appearance. Do all the small part numbers match? The "42" code was a later variation that year, which started with "S/42" marked pistols. Jan Still's forum has a summary of the year's variations here.

The serial number of your pistol would be the digits and suffix letter found on the front of the frame above the trigger guard. I think I can make out "6243" on the receiver. Is the number "63" stamped inside the trigger plate?

If you remove the grips to check markings on their back sides, be very careful not to break the left grip near the safety lever. Just barely lift the grip off the frame before sliding it away. Also be careful with the screw slots.

If the finish bluing appears "thin" to you, I think that it was not unusual in pistols made in this period. My own 1939's finish looks almost translucent.

Next please post pictures of the magazines and the holster and any loading tool. Are these matching also?

If this is all matching and you're looking for valuation for insurance purposes, I would think the pistol alone somewhere between $1500 and $1700. If the magazines are numbered to the pistol, add $500-600. A correct period holster would be $250-$300. A period marked loading tool another $100.

Simpson's Ltd and FSG Firearms (among others) have websites that should show you similar rigs priced at retail.

While not particularly rare, your pistol looks to be in particularly nice condition. The higher percentage of original finish the more valuable.

Marc
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