My thought is that Capt. Bowser most likely had it engraved. Lugers were highly prized even then.
And as all of us who have served in the military know. Theft of personal property has always been an issue. Soldiers don't get paid much, and even an otherwise honest Trooper, could be tempted by such a prize to raise some beer money.
As far as effecting the value, it could go either way. Those who value provenance and the traceable history would most likely be willing to pay a much higher price. While others, would consider it a devaluation. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...
Ron
__________________
I Still Need DWM side plate #49... if anyone runs across a nice one.
What ~Rudyard Kipling~ said...
|