my first PO8 info and help?

[scottar15]

Okay after looking over the Luger again and looking for that (a) it does have that "a" there so as according to John, it is a low number 41. A or B block. That being said will that clear up the number issue David mentioned and does that effect collector value?

[guns3545]

Originally Posted by scottar15

Okay after looking over the Luger again and looking for that (a) it does have that "a" there so as according to John, it is a low number 41. A or B block. That being said will that clear up the number issue David mentioned and does that effect collector value?

The SN, i.e. 271a, assuming all else about the gun is correct, and it appears so, does not affect the value one way or another. It is a late date 41byf with the features you would expect on the gun, i.e. Black Bakelite grips and a Type 6 magazine.

But which value are you speaking about? Buying it or selling?? Insuring it?? There are few absolutes in Luger collecting, or much else for that matter. David's numbers are certainly in the ball park.

The collector value of a complete rig for so-called Black Widows is much less than other guns that had serial numbered magazines. For example it would not be unusual for a totally correct, all matching rig with two magazines, tool and excellent holster to go for $3500 to 4000 or higher if in really excellent condition or the variation is rare.

But in this case, just get another Type 6 magazine, a SE655 stamped tool and have a decent holster and you have a rig. Since magazines are not numbered, the difficulty of getting a period correct, complete rig is removed. Hence much lower value.

John

[alvin]

Originally Posted by guns3545

The collector value of a complete rig for so-called Black Widows is much less than other guns that had serial numbered magazines. For example it would not be unusual for a totally correct, all matching rig with two magazines, tool and excellent holster to go for $3500 to 4000 or higher if in really excellent condition or the variation is rare.

BW's magazines are not numbered, so there is no formula like x1.5 or x2.0. Period correct magazine comes much easier than matching magazine. That's can be considered being an advantage. The black grip panel looks cool, but carries one big disadvantage -- it's fragile. Don't shoot it with original grips on.