S Krieghoff vaue

John D. · 04-13-2001, 08:42 AM

A couple of comments...

- First, there are three variations of the "S" code to HK collectors. Each series has a different value and the variations occur in either the toggle stamp used and/or the acceptance markings. Further - even in the Mid-S, grip types can vary (wood or Ritzmann), markings and proofs on small parts can vary, etc. If this is a "Mid - S" (est. production of 500), then the price you paid is very good given the represented condition. If it is an Early S or Late-S variation, then the price is a little on the high side..

- On the "renumbered" mag - some of the "S" mags look like they were "renumbered". Well - a few were - by HK.! However, the stamp used should be the same "typeface" used on the small parts & there should be a LWAa acceptance mark on the mag base as well (and it should be the proper mag type for that period). To tell - you'd have to post some photos of the mag base in good quality.

- As for the finish the areas you state look "glass or sand blasted.." - this is normal HK production (NOT on re-works of 1920/3 commercials, however!). However, one of the tell-tale signs of refinishing is to look for the "thumbprint" just above the lanyard lug. This slightly darker area looks like a "thumbprint" as it was flame hardened by HK. Most refinished HKs do NOT have that area. Based on your description - I'll bet'cha your's does have that thumbprint...

- As for the overall finish - yes, the early production HKs had an excellent finish, but started dropping off in the 1943 production year. However, it is not uncommon to find that an original finish HK Luger will have some VERY SLIGHT PLUM colors on the various parts even in the early models - especially around the toggle knobs and the extractor. That's normal for HK...

If you would like to contact me off-line, my e-mail is on this message. I'd need the serial number, grip type and a very GOOD description of the "dagger/anchor" toggle marking (overall placement, how the "S" and "L" line up under the anchor, and some small parts markings) to help you out further.

Sounds like you have an excellent HK, though!!

Hope this helps...

John D.

http://boards.rennlist.com/upload/thumbp.jpg

04-13-2001, 08:42 AM	#5
John D. Administrator & Site Owner LugerForum Patron Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: A Little NE of Somewhere... Posts: 2,651 Thanks: 477 Thanked 515 Times in 128 Posts	Hi Paul.... A couple of comments... - First, there are three variations of the "S" code to HK collectors. Each series has a different value and the variations occur in either the toggle stamp used and/or the acceptance markings. Further - even in the Mid-S, grip types can vary (wood or Ritzmann), markings and proofs on small parts can vary, etc. If this is a "Mid - S" (est. production of 500), then the price you paid is very good given the represented condition. If it is an Early S or Late-S variation, then the price is a little on the high side.. - On the "renumbered" mag - some of the "S" mags look like they were "renumbered". Well - a few were - by HK.! However, the stamp used should be the same "typeface" used on the small parts & there should be a LWAa acceptance mark on the mag base as well (and it should be the proper mag type for that period). To tell - you'd have to post some photos of the mag base in good quality. - As for the finish the areas you state look "glass or sand blasted.." - this is normal HK production (NOT on re-works of 1920/3 commercials, however!). However, one of the tell-tale signs of refinishing is to look for the "thumbprint" just above the lanyard lug. This slightly darker area looks like a "thumbprint" as it was flame hardened by HK. Most refinished HKs do NOT have that area. Based on your description - I'll bet'cha your's does have that thumbprint... - As for the overall finish - yes, the early production HKs had an excellent finish, but started dropping off in the 1943 production year. However, it is not uncommon to find that an original finish HK Luger will have some VERY SLIGHT PLUM colors on the various parts even in the early models - especially around the toggle knobs and the extractor. That's normal for HK... If you would like to contact me off-line, my e-mail is on this message. I'd need the serial number, grip type and a very GOOD description of the "dagger/anchor" toggle marking (overall placement, how the "S" and "L" line up under the anchor, and some small parts markings) to help you out further. Sounds like you have an excellent HK, though!! Hope this helps... John D. http://boards.rennlist.com/upload/thumbp.jpg