1911 DWM Questions

I was just referred to this forum, so this is my first posting. I hope my question is appropiate for this forum.


I'm trying to find out some information on a DWM 1911 dated Luger that a friend's father-in-law brought home from WWII.

I have already done some research, and am hoping that some of the Luger experts here will be able to confirm and add to my findings so far.


THe pistol in question is 9mm, with a 4" barrel. DWM in script on top of the toggle. Serial number on front of frame below barrel is 40XX with what looks like a upper case cursive "L" below it. THe 40XX is repeated on the underside of the barrel. The last two digits of the SN are repeated on the toggle and on the part of the safety that slides up to block the bar that releases the firing pin. THe XX is also on the bar just mentioned also. THe full serial number with teh script letter also appears on the wooden base of the magazine.


Below the barrel by the SN is 8,83 which I assume would be bore diameter.


THe date 1911 is stamped on the top of the chamber. There are several proof marks on the sides of the barrel, toggle and frame in various places.


Pistol has wooden grips, no grip safety, and no stock lug. I think I've found this pistol identified in teh Blue Book as a "1908 Military Dated Chamber (1910-1913)".


The gun itself is in excellent condition both mechanically and in finish. Pistol was obviously well polished and finished and finish is nearly all there with the exception of a couple sharpe edges and along the plate that holds the trigger in.


This pistol has no slide hold open mechanism. Someone told me that this feature was added on to later Lugers and that because mine doesn't have it, my pistol was never sent in for an arsenal overhall. Does this make it more desireable? I wonder how it could have made it through two World Wars in such beautiful shape.


ALso with the pistol is a tan leather holster. It has a large flap the covers the entire handle of the pistol. There is a spare magazine in the pouch that isn't marked with a serial number on the buttplate. The back of the holster between the belt loops is marked:

CARL ACKVA

BADKREUZNACH (SP? tough to read)

1939

Nazi Eagle over swastika

WaA286

The holster is in very good shape. All stitching is intact, no cracking or splitting of leather. Outside of holster has some minor scuffs and scratches on it, but looks good. The holster is obviously much newer than the pistol. They were brought home from WWII together though and from the way the holser is worn on the inside, the pistol has been in it for a long time.


Could anyone provide me with more information on this pistol or the holster? Also, I hate to ask, but what would a fair value for this pistol and holster combo be? My friend doesn't intend to sell, but of course wants to know "what's it worth".


Also, I'd like to try shooting a couple magazines of ammo through the gun. Will use standard FMJ roundnose ammo. Any advice there?


Many thanks,

Jason