Eric,
I have observed at least two different versions of the seal on 1906 AE Lugers. One version has 20 bumps and the other has only 16 bumps round the outside. When I first saw this I thought the 16 ones were fake, but I believe they are a truly different version (perhaps some other 'expert' can chime in on this).
Your 1902 above has the original 20 bump version - you are right, that is a beautiful eagle. I find the earlier ones were sharper and nicer, maybe due to the dies being newer. The "E Pluribus Unum" inscription on the ribbon should always be clearly visible for guns in good condition, but I've seen some pretty poor ones on later guns.
I wanted to show you an example of the other but I can't seem to attach a picture.
- Geo
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