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Unread 04-04-2013, 08:27 AM   #12
Douglas Jr.
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Just slight correction about the time frame of the Portuguese Luger.

As Ron correctly said, these pistols were purchased around 1908 for the Portuguese Army. At that time, Portugal was a Kingdom, and Manuel II (1889-1932) was its ruler. He had become king when his father (Carlos I) and older brother (Luis Felipe) were shot and killed by two anarchists on February 1st, 1908.

However, Manuel II rule was short: a coup d'etat followed in October, 1910 and Portugal became a Republic. That's why some of the Navy portuguese Lugers bear the king Manuel II anagram and others has R.P. (Republica Portuguesa) over the chamber, as the political change occurred during the delivery of such guns.

Nice pistols and thanks for sharing.

Douglas.
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