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Extremely Rare Bergman 'MARS' Semi-Automatic Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 5,000.00 USD
Extremely Rare Bergman 'MARS' Semi-Automatic Pistol
This is an example of a rare Bergman Mars semi-automatic pistol. These actually pre-date and are the predecessor of the Bergman-Bayard pistols and was Bergmann's first successful pistol aimed at the military market. The Bergman series of pistols are actually some of the very first semi-automatic pistols ever produced and certainly rank right up there in rarity with the Borschardt and early 1896 Broomhandle pistols. There were only approximately 1000 in total produced with the first 100 produced in a 30 caliber bottleneck pistol cartridge with the remaining production all being made in 9mm, such as this pistol. This pistol also has the very rare extended, detachable box magazine. On top on the upper receiver in front of the rear sight it is marked "BERGMAN / MARS / PAT. BREV. / S.G.D.G.", the left side of the barrel extension it is marked "CAL 9", on top of the rear section of the barrel has a "double crown over U" proofmark and the left side of the frame behind the magazine well and top of the bolt handle are marked with a double crown over "U". The underside of the barrel and bolt are numbered 394.
BBL: 4 inch solid
Stock:
Gauge: 9 mm Bergman
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 394
Condition: Fine with exception of the magazine well on the forward frame being bulged out, possibly due to magazine cartridge discharge. The balance of the pistol retains 85% original blue finish with muzzle and high edge wear, overall thinning and a mix of smooth gray and brown patina on the backstrap. The floor plate on the magazine is a crude period replacement. (this makes sense with my previous findings). Most of the original straw colors remain on the trigger and the hammer shows some minor pitting. The grips are very fine with a small amount of moderate wear, a few minor dings and overall crisp checkering. The markings are clear. The action is fine.