[Aaron]

The photo showing a pin in the top of the side plate is an optical illusion, as the "pin" is only light reflecting off a pit. There is no doubt that the pistol is rust blued, and beautifully done, at that. I agree that the placement of the numbers "02" on the side plate are unusual in that they are not centered, but after closely examining them with a 20 power magnifier I am convinced that they are from the same dies used elsewhere on the gun. All markings on the gun appear to contain blueing, even the "Germany" stamping. I do not know how to recognize a sear safety, even after consulting several references. The grips are near mint and numbered to the gun, as is the bore and the internal parts, which lead me to believe that the gun left Germany in pristine condition, but was subjected to poor storage conditions later on. OTOH, one would think that a 1914 dated Luger would show some signs of battle use. There is no indication whatever that any attempt was ever made to remove the date or any other markings.