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mrerick · 09-21-2017, 05:41 PM

I believe that this Luger was made by Swiss W+F expressly for private sale. There are not many of these compared to the military pistols. It's rare and, considering the beautiful condition, I think it's very desirable. The "P" (which is part of the serial number, and a suffix letter) indicates it was intended for private / commercial sale. If it wasn't made for private sale, it may have been arsenal refurbished for commercial sale. The frame date would tend to indicate original manufacture for commercial sale.

It is exquisite and I doubt it's been messed with or refinished after leaving Bern.

I can't explain the "IMPORT" mark. Perhaps it was an early import after 1968 but before the marking rules were made explicit.

If more knowledgeable members don't chime in (and correct any errors I've made), I'll get out Bobba's book on the Swiss Lugers and look up more details.

Marc

09-21-2017, 05:41 PM	#2
mrerick Super Moderator - Patron LugerForum Life Patron Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Eastern North Carolina, USA Posts: 3,919 Thanks: 1,377 Thanked 3,135 Times in 1,518 Posts	I believe that this Luger was made by Swiss W+F expressly for private sale. There are not many of these compared to the military pistols. It's rare and, considering the beautiful condition, I think it's very desirable. The "P" (which is part of the serial number, and a suffix letter) indicates it was intended for private / commercial sale. If it wasn't made for private sale, it may have been arsenal refurbished for commercial sale. The frame date would tend to indicate original manufacture for commercial sale. It is exquisite and I doubt it's been messed with or refinished after leaving Bern. I can't explain the "IMPORT" mark. Perhaps it was an early import after 1968 but before the marking rules were made explicit. If more knowledgeable members don't chime in (and correct any errors I've made), I'll get out Bobba's book on the Swiss Lugers and look up more details. Marc __________________ Igitur si vis pacem, para bellum - - Therefore if you want peace, prepare for war.