1923 Matching or not?

[BILL]

David, the M1923, according to Jan Still's 'Weimar Lugers' shows up with a variety of parts and pieces that may or may not be stamped since, for the most part, they were factory 'parts' guns. I would take the pistol into some really bright light (maybe outside) and look at the finish. If the bluing, the wear, the luster, any brownish or reddish patina under the bluing (noticeable at the breaks of the sharp edges) is all consistant with the rest of the pistol, I would not worry about it being a mismatch. That particular model of Luger has it's own appeal just for that reason. Be aware, however, that there are people who rely solely on the numbers on a pistol to determine if it is "all matching" or not. Some will use that criteria as the only indicator and, as they see more Lugers and read more books, will realize that there are many exceptions to all the conventions. If you are paying a premium for a matching, original pistol and you have doubts then it is always better to pass on it (if it is really important to you). Same goes if you are selling a pistol that you aren't sure about (don't make that argument that you know it is 'correct' if you are not sure). Enjoy the hobby.