September 15, 16, & 17, 2026 Firearms & Militaria
The live portion of this session begins on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
Lot #1216:
(C) DWM 1902 CARTRIDGE COUNTER 9MM LUGER SEMI-AUTOMATIC PISTOL WITH HOLSTER.
This outstanding and historically important DWM Model 1902 American Eagle Cartridge Counter Luger represents one of the rarest and most desirable early semi-automatic pistols associated with United States military trials. Manufactured during a critical period when the U.S. Army was actively evaluating self-loading handguns to replace revolvers, these Lugers stand among the most advanced and refined sidearms of the era. Serial number 22432 is part of an exceptionally limited production run of approximately fifty pistols manufactured for the United States Board of Ordnance during the 1902–1903 trials program. All pistols in this contract fall within the clearly documented serial range of 22401 through 22450, a range confirmed in leading collector references including Görtz & Sturgess. The present example falls squarely within this sequence, confirming its identity as one of the original U.S. Cartridge Counter test pistols. These Model 1902 pistols were developed as an improvement over the earlier Model 1900 Lugers supplied to the U.S. military, incorporating both the more powerful 9mm Parabellum chambering and an innovative experimental feature known as the Powell Indicating Device. This mechanism, one of the earliest attempts at a visual round-count system, utilizes a specially modified magazine with a follower extension that travels through a precisely machined slot in the left grip panel. A numbered scale, visible through a translucent window, allows the shooter to monitor remaining ammunition as the pistol is fired. This example retains all the characteristic features of the Model 1902 Cartridge Counter configuration, including the distinctive 4-inch “fat barrel”, the American Eagle chamber crest, and the DWM-marked toggle assembly. Additional original elements include the recessed breechblock, dished toggle links, grip safety, and toggle lock mechanism, all consistent with early “Old Model” Luger production. Serial number 22432 is matching throughout, with the full serial number correctly applied to the barrel and frame, and corresponding abbreviated numbers present on the takedown lever, trigger, toggle links, breechblock components, and grip safety. The style and application of the numbering reflect correct early DWM hand-stamped practices. The pistol also retains the correct import mark, properly located on the bottom of the magazine well. The left grip panel is properly machined for the Cartridge Counter device and retains the numbered indicator strip and viewing window, exhibiting appropriate aging consistent with original materials. The grip panels remain in excellent condition with strong, sharp checkering, and the internal workmanship reflects the high standards of DWM production. Accompanying the pistol are two original cartridge counter magazines, both of the correct and highly desirable pattern. Each magazine exhibits the defining characteristics of authentic Powell-device magazines, including the follower extension, left-side indicator channel, and proper construction details. The presence of two original magazines is highly uncommon and represents a significant enhancement in both collectability and historical completeness. The pistol remains in excellent overall condition, presenting exceptionally well. The original rust blue finish is well preserved, retaining a rich and even appearance with light, honest wear consistent with careful handling over time. The small parts display a pleasing amount of their original straw coloration, providing a classic contrast typical of early DWM pistols. Metal surfaces remain smooth with sharp edges and clear markings throughout. The bore is strong with visible rifling, and the pistol functions properly, reflecting careful preservation. Further enhancing this already exceptional offering, the pistol is accompanied by its original holster and shoulder strap, completing a highly desirable and rarely encountered set. The holster remains consistent with period U.S. military trial accessories and adds significant historical and display value to the ensemble. Historically, these pistols were delivered to the U.S. Army and issued for field testing at Fort Riley, Kansas, where they were evaluated by the Cavalry and Light Artillery Boards. Despite their advanced design, excellent ergonomics, and mechanical precision, the U.S. ultimately declined adoption, favoring continued development toward a larger-caliber service pistol—a process that would lead to the adoption of the Colt Model 1911. Following the completion of trials, these pistols were withdrawn and gradually dispersed, leaving only a limited number of surviving examples today. As a result, the Model 1902 Cartridge Counter Luger is widely recognized as one of the most elusive and historically significant variations in the entire Luger collecting field. This gun is featured on pp. 223, 225, 227, 229, 263, 280, 305 and 1484 of The Borchardt & Luger Automatic Pistols by Joachim Gortz & Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess. All numbered parts are matching. This gun is within the proper serial range of the 50 guns that were fitted with Powell indicating device for U.S. trials. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess. Serial number 22432, with its documented placement in the correct production range, matching configuration, two original magazines, and original holster with strap, represents a superior and highly complete example of this landmark U.S. trials pistol and an exceptional opportunity for advanced collectors.
Model
1902 Cartridge Counter