[DonVoigt]

Hi and welcome.
Good question, as they say on TV.

You can't go wrong with a Mauser from K to 1942 date for a first Luger- but it is really easy to pay too much for one. Not because there are few, but because they are "Nazi"; though some variants, like the K date are scarcer that others.

There are also many sub-variants that "collectors" chase- so I would study for a month or three before buying. Watch the auctions online, read all the threads here. You may get a good one on the trader here for a fair price.

Decide if you want a "rig", meaning with a holster, spare clip, loading tool with the pistol.

You can find a lesser condition, maybe with a mismatch part, pistol with mismatched clip for under $1000 if you are patient; or pay over $2700 for one. Even more for a rig. Do you want one with "bring back" papers?

Check out the offerings online by Legacy Collectibles and Simpson's; they have many Mausers and others, but also high retail prices.

And don't forget, most earlier lugers were still used in WWII, many have evidence of this stamped into their steel.

Oh, and most important, don't forget books- Jan Still's volume on 3rd Reich lugers would be a good one to have.

But do go back and read all the posts here in your area of interest.

Hope this helps.