July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/13/2022
Swedish contract Luger manufactured by Mauser in 1939. Approximately 300 Lugers were purchased by Sweden between 1938-1939 for Army test trials, with approximately 30 of said 300 being chambered in 7.65x25mm Parabellum and fitted with 4" barrels. This example, being one of the approximately 30 chambered in 7.65mm, bears "1939" over the chamber. Toggle bears the Mauser Banner logo. "(Crown) / U" proofs are present on the left side of the receiver and breechblock, as well as on the front of the sight block. All numbers are matching (including the magazine), with the exception of the checkered walnut grips, which match one another. This example is featured on page 540 of "The Borchardt & Luger Automatic Pistols" by Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess and Joachim Gortz. PROVENANCE: Former Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess. James D. Julia, October 2013 Extraordinary & Historic Firearms Auction, Lot 3250. CONDITION: Extremely fine to near mint, with metal components retaining bountiful amounts of their original factory blue finish overall, showing a few extremely light areas of wear from operation of the action as well as a couple of very light superficial marks from handling and storage. Strawed components are en suite, with the trigger showing some very light thinning and some spots of age related discoloration overall. Exceptional, near mint bore, exhibiting sharp and well defined lands and grooves throughout. Grips are very fine, exhibiting some very light smoothing to the tips of the checkering, as well as a couple minor nicks to the diamonds overall. Befitting of an advanced collection in condition alone, the rarity of this variation, as well as this example's inclusion in "The Borchardt & Luger Automatic Pistols" book, makes for a seldom opportunity for one to acquire an extremely scarce Swedish .30 Luger test trials Luger. MLW
Caliber/Bore
7.65x25mm Parabellum