questions

[mrerick]

Finding an all matching Luger including the magazine, with all in the original finish is rather rare. That's why collectors pay more for them.

Some of this depends on condition. To be collectible it should have over 85% of it's original finish intact.

Post some pictures taken without flash in indirect light (shaded outdoors) and we may be able to help you judge the finish on your Luger.

I personally would not shoot it. It's not worth the risk or breaking a numbered part. It does happen, and while not common, it's certainly not worth the risk. It's less expensive to get one that is a mismatch, or refinished and shoot that one.

I think it's a bit like collecting fine vintage wines. Some cost thousands per bottle. What good is wine unless you drink it? Well, some of those bottles are a real delight when opened. Some have turned to vinegar... Which ones will be a "loss".... You can't tell without tasting it. But tasting it destroys it's collector value...

Marc