September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/7/2023
Hans Tauscher served as an officer in the Imperial German Army prior to emigrating to New York, where he acted as a firearms agent, promoting the Luger pistol beginning in 1900. As tensions rose with Europe embroiled in World War I, Tauscher was arrested on suspicion of espionage as well as plotting to sabotage the Welland Canal. Although Tauscher was eventually acquitted due to a lack of direct evidence, his ledger of handguns supposedly issued to German agents was preserved and published by Sam Costanzo in "World of Lugers: Serial Numbers of Lugers Issued to German Agents In The United States 1913-1916". This example is recorded on page 7 with an issue date of September 27, 1913, prior to the start of WWI. A Model 1906 in 9mm, it was manufactured for commercial sales in the US, bearing the American Great Seal above the chamber and "GERMANY" mark on the front of the frame below the serial number. Crown over "N" German nitro proofs are present on the underside of the barrel, frame, and toggle components. Toggle also stamped with the intertwined "DWM" monogram. Safety is blank, with small parts stawed. Other components rust blued. Grips are correctly unmarked 2-piece checkered walnut. Accompanied by a copy a signed copy of Costanzo's pamphlet listing this gun by serial number. PROVENANCE: From the advanced collection of the esteemed and respected Dr. Jim Watson of Scottsdale, Arizona. CONDITION: Very good. The vast majority of the fading original blue retained with some wear and freckling, especially on the side plate, rails, and grip straps. Trigger retains traces of straw but is largely bright. Grips show wear; the checking appears recut. Strong, frosted bore. Mechanically fine. Externally visible serial numbers are matching. A gun with a great story.
Paperwork
World of Lugers Book