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AS PICTURED AND DESCRIBED IN THE BOOK CENTRAL POWERS PISTOLS BY STILL
LOT 1369
Rare Documented Bulgarian Contract DWM Model 1906 Luger Semi- Automatic Pistol Photographed in “Central Powers Pistols” by Jan Still - Serial no. 257, 7.65 mm Luger Auto cal., 4 3/4 inch round bbl., blue finish, walnut grips. Approximately 1,500 of these rare Model 1906 Luger pistols were ordered by Bulgaria in 1908 in their own serial number range of 1-1500. These Lugers are rarely seen today as they saw heavy use throughout both World Wars, with many captured by the Soviets that never resurfaced. Most of these were refinished, reworked, and/or rechambered to
9 mm during their service lives, with this example still chambered in 7.65 mm. This exact pistol is photographed in Jan C. Still’s book “Central Powers Pistols” on page 401 (Figure 169), with a description of it on page 397. The lot is also accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from noted author Jan C. Still’s family verifying it was in his personal collection. This model has the
Bulgarian Crest marked chamber area with the DWM monogram on the front toggle with Cyrillic safety and extractor markings. The full serial number is located on the front of the receiver and the underside of the barrel with the partial serial number “57” visible on various components, with the replacement right grip panel numbered “68” on the interior and unnumbered left grip panel. Fitted with blade and notch sights, checkered walnut grips, and a correct pattern, unmarked, nickel finished magazine with a walnut base. CONDITION: Very fine, retains 90% plus original blue finish with some minor edge wear, a few very small patches of light pitting, mainly on the left side of the barrel and some light freckling. 75% original straw colors remain on the small components. The grips are also very fine with a few light handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This rare and desirable survivor Bulgarian Contract DWM Model 1906 Luger in original condition is missing from even the most advanced Luger collections. Provenance: The Jan C. Still Collection; Property of a Gentleman. Estimate: 18,000 - 27,500
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