1917 Arty rig c/w drum

[alamar]

Hi

I am hoping that some of the more experienced members on the board can help me in understanding what my Artlllery Luger is. I want to know whether it is a collectable or more of a shooter. As well, approximate values would be helpful as well. This is the one I mentioned in Sparky's thread in General Discussion. (The H&H barrel thread).

Pictures are posted below:

Its a 1917 dated DWM. Looks like all numbers match. Should the grips have a 2 digit code as well? I am confused with the barrel however. I thought that all Lugers had a serial number followed by a lower case "script" letter. All mine has is the full 4 digit serial number with "8.82" below it. I don't really know how to gauge the amount of bluing remaining. The bluing is worn off somewhat near the muzzle and on a number of high spots. Other than that its all there. I'd say it 96-98%, but could just as easily be 80%?! On the right side of the frame are 4 proof marks (can't make them out at the moment (my eyes are getting worse!). There is also a 5th mark right at the breech end of the barrel on the right side as well. It is in line with the sight adjustment bar (don't know the real term sorry) that is right above it.

The drum magazine is stamped "450653" on both sides of the flat side of the drum. It also has a "B" with a horizontal line below it followed below that by an "N". As well, the numbers spaced around the outer perimeter of the drum of "12, 17, 27, and 32" Which I assume are the numbers of rounds in the mag.

The mag cover has 6 tabs on the back spine, 3 on the bottom and 2 on top at the back as well.

The wooden shoulder stock seems to be off in serial number. It is 1547, 19 digits off of the pistol. There also could be mark or stamp below it right between the 2nd and 3rd digits, but it could also be a ding.

I also have 2 leather holsters for it. Neither is near perfect. The one attached to the wooden shoulder stock has no markings on the front. would there be something on the back side? The flap looks to be of a different colour than the rest of it. Should it have the little pocket on the inside for the tool? This one does not. The pocket for the cleaning rod has rotted away.

The other leather holster is missing the flap. it is stamped onthe front:
"F. GROSSE
DRESDEN-N.
1917"

Finally te regular mag seems to be stainless or nickel with a wooden base. There are no markings whatsoever on the mag. The wooden base has a 4 digit number. it si either 8811,8211 or 8212 or 8112. Ya i know, I'll get out the magnifying glass this weekend!! There could also be a mark on the bottom of the wood at the back of the mag, but again it could also be a ding.

Any help in telling me what I have would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Alamar

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