June 9-10, 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/10/2017
Production began at the Krieghoff plant for a special run of Lugers for the German Luftwaffe in 1934. Production reached approximately 9,000 pistols between 1934 and 1937. The earliest full dated chamber was 1936. After 1937, total production of guns from 1938 to 1945, all with full dates on chambers, was a mere additional 2,000 guns, with 1100 attributed to 1940. All fall within the certain serial number block (11,000 to 12,000). These weapons were finely finished in an almost commercial style blue. This example features all matching numbers to include the aluminum bottom magazine. Finish is blue with straw and Nitre blue small parts. Sports a pair of black plastic Mauser-type grips. Chamber is stamped 1940. Toggle is stamped "HK" with big anchor and "Krieghoff Suhl". Inside grip frame has the six-point star inspector stamp. Numerous acceptance marks stamped on small parts, as well as right side of frame and underneath bottom of barrel. Pistol shows usual high edge wear on rails and sideplate, and is thinning on rear grip strap. Otherwise retains 95% of the original high polish factory blue finish. Fine bore and action. The exact serial number of this Luftwaffe Luger can be found on page 74 in the book "Krieghoff Parabellum" by Gibson. The discussion and details of a 1940 dated pistol can be found on page 174 and 175. The 1940's dated Krieghoff Lugers are amongst the most desirable of all Lugers due to the short production.
CORRECTION: Does not have matching magazine. 1940 production was 1100, not 100.