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Rare 1902 Commercial DWM "Fat Barrel' Luger Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:0.00 USD Estimated At:5,500.00 - 8,500.00 USD
Rare 1902 Commercial DWM  Fat Barrel' Luger Pistol
This is a very fine example of a rare early commercial contract Model 1902 "Fat Barrel" Luger. This is a very scarce variation that was intermixed with the standard 1902 production Lugers and it is estimated that only about 600 were produced in total. The1902 Lugers were produced in a specific serial number range, 22300 to 22400 and 22900 to 23500 and this pistol falls into the later production group and manufactured just prior to the 1902 Danzig test Lugers and the cartridge counter models. The Model 1902 was the first Luger chambered for the 9 mm cartridge with a 4 inch barrel and was generally intended for sales outside of Germany. The top of the chamber is blank, the toggle has the DWM logo, the right side of the barrel extension is unmarked and the left side has the early commercial Crown over "B and U" proofs. The bottom of the barrel has the Commercial Crown over "B, U and G" proofs along with the serial number and the front of the frame is marked "GERMANY", under the serial number indicating sale outside of Germany. It has the early recessed breech bolt, unmarked extractor, both the grip and thumb safety and the early dished toggles. The thumb safety functions in the upward position and the lower safety lever area is polished bright. The magazine is the correct early wooden base version. The matching partial serial number "88" is marked on the takedown lever, bottom of the side plate and rear toggle link. The small components are finished in straw and the pistol is fitted with checkered walnut grips.
BBL: 4 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 9 mm Luger
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 23188
Condition: Very fine. The pistol retains 75% original blue finish with some scattered minor thinning, muzzle and high edge wear, and some minor pitting and spotting on the front left side of the barrel. Approximately 50% of the original straw colors remain on the small components. The grips are very good with some minor bruising and a few minor dings and handling marks. The barrel proofs are a bit weak, otherwise the markings are clear. The action is fine. A rare Commercial Model 1902 "Fat Barrel" Luger for the advanced Luger collector.