3365

*BABY BERGMANN MARS M1903.

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
*BABY BERGMANN MARS M1903.
NSN. Caliber 7.8mm (per consignor). Very unusual early semiautomatic whose design is reminiscent of the Bergmann Mars 1903. 1-1/2" bbl and 5.5" overall length and 3.25" in height. Crown U proofing on the top of the bbl, receiver, and on top of the bolt. A rotating safety is mounted on the left frame and positioned by two detents. The forward detent allows firing; the rear detent locks the hammer in place. There is no question that the gun has been fired as the receiver is noticeably cracked on both sides of the rear sight. Retracted bolt is retained by the hammer whose rough appearance suggests hasty fitting or (more likely) replacement when damaged by the same firing that cracked the receiver. The grip has been pieced into the upper frame as reflected by a braised line near the top of the frontstrap. The magazine, released by a button in the trigger guard, has three indicator holes and a detachable base. PROVENANCE: Joseph J. Schroeder, Jr. Collection. CONDITION: 75% original rust blue with virtually all blue missing from the frontstrap and from the back of the frame behind the hammer. The back of the receiver is cracked on each side of the rear sight with each crack measuring about 3/8" long. Unnumbered grips are modern replacements, checkered to mimic those of the Bergmann Mars, in nearly new condition. Bright bore with shallow rifling amidst moderate oxidation. 4-48512 LMA75