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LOT 434
Exceptional DWM Model 1900 “American
Eagle” Commercial Luger Semi-Automatic Pistol - Serial no.
9730, 7.65 mm Luger Auto cal., 4 3/4 inch round bbl., blue/straw finish,
walnut grips. Manufactured c. 1900 to 1906 in a serial number range of
2,000 to 19,000, the Model 1900 was the first production Luger semi-automatic
pistol offered by Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken (DWM) to the international commercial
market, with the “American eagle” variant intended specifically for the lucrative United States market.
Features fixed blade front and notch rear sights, the distinct “Great Seal of the United States” crest
marked prominently on top of the chamber, the commercial “GERMANY” marking on front of the long frame
under the serial number, “DWM” monogram on the front toggle link, a flat recoil spring, grip safety, recessed
breech block, dished toggles with toggle lock on the right side, a narrow trigger, checkered thumb safety, the later
developed hold-open device fitted to the frame, along with niter blue finished and straw colored smaller parts. Matching full
serial numbers are visible on the front of the frame and the underside of the barrel, with matching “80” partial serial numbers
on smaller parts including the extension. Fitted with a pair of checkered walnut grips with matching “80” partial serial numbers
stamped on the interiors and a nickel plated magazine with correct unmarked hardwood base.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retaining 90% plus original bright blue finish, 70% original niter blue finish, and 75% plus original straw
colors with some limited minor edge wear, some light silvering on the smaller parts, a few scattered small patches of freckling/spotting,
some limited minor thinning on the grip straps with a mostly grey patina, a few scattered minor handling marks, and a crisp “Great
Seal of the United States” crest on top of the chamber. The grips are excellent with a clean, consistent fit,
crisp checkering, and most all of the attractive
vintage oil finish retained in the grain. The
hardwood base of the magazine
is dented. Mechanically excellent.
Overall a very attractive and eye
catching specimen of a DWM Model
1900 “American eagle” commercial
Luger pistol!
Estimate: 3,000 - 4,500
LOT 435
Very Scarce, Highly
Desirable U.S. Rock
Island Arsenal Leather
Holster for a U.S. Model
1900 Test Luger Semi-Automatic
Pistol - Originally ordered in 1901, this
holster is one of a small batch manufactured
by the U.S. Rock Island Arsenal in 1902 for
use in the U.S. test trials of DWM’s Luger semi-
automatic pistol. Fabricated from brown leather in
a left-handed configuration, with embossed ovaled
“US” stamp on the flap, “H.H.D.” inspector’s initials at the
bottom edge of the flap below the closure loop, and stamped
“ROCK ISLAND/ARSENAL/E.H.S.” on the
backside.
CONDITION: Fine overall. The flap, side,
and belt loop showing minor cracking
concentrated along the folds and stress
points, with mild wear and staining
overall and verdigris buildup around the
brass. Overall the leather remains strong
and supple, with the stitching tight and
the rivets and stud holding solid.
Estimate: 3,000 - 5,000
LOT 433
Excellent DWM Model
1906 “American Eagle” Commercial Luger Semi-Automatic
Pistol with Case and Accessories - Serial no. 49025, 7.65 mm
Luger Auto cal., 4 3/4 inch round bbl., blue/straw finish, walnut grips.
Manufactured c. 1906-1914. These “American Eagle” commercial Luger
pistols were manufactured by DWM specifically for the United States
market, and were sold through sporting goods stores and catalogs. The
Model 1906 incorporated improved components over the Model 1900, including a solid
checkered toggle, coiled recoil spring, and more durable extractor. Features a beaded blade
front sight, integral notch rear sight on the rear toggle, grip safety, an “American Eagle” crest
on top of the chamber, “GERMANY” export mark on front of the frame, and “DWM” monogram
on the front toggle. “Crown/B”, “G” and “U” commercial proofs. The extractor is marked “LOADED”,
and the lower safety position is left bright. Matching visible “commercial” pattern serial numbers.
Fitted with a set of unnumbered checkered walnut grips and a correct nickel plated magazine with
unmarked walnut base. Includes a leatherette case with green felt lined fitted interior, two extra
magazines, a box of Remington UMC .30 Luger (7.65 mm) ammunition containing approximately 45
rounds, a 1902 publication DWM manual, combination tool, and punch.
CONDITION: Excellent, retains 97% original blue finish and 90% original straw colors, with minor high edge wear, and
some verdigris on the front sight. Grips are also excellent with crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Case is fine
as professionally restored overall, manual and ammunition box are both very good, with general age/storage related
wear, a handwritten note on the cover of the manual, and one separated edge on the ammunition box.
Estimate: 3,500 - 5,500