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LOT 3334
Fine Loewe Model 1893 Borchardt Semi-
Automatic Pistol with Matching Numbered
Stock and Accessories - Serial no. 648, 7.63 mm
Borchardt cal., 7 1/2 inch round bbl., blue finish,
walnut grips. Manufactured in the 1890s by the
firm of Ludwig Loewe (later DWM), the Model
1893 was the work of Hugo Borchardt, and was
among the first viable semi-automatic pistol designs to
hit the commercial market. The Borchardt Pistol was also an important forerunner to the work of Georg Luger, who would refine the core mechanical principles of the Borchardt to make his own eponymous and world famous handgun.
Fixed blade and notch sights, with “WAFFENFABRIK/ LOEWE/BERLIN.” on top of the chamber, “SYSTEM BORCHARDT PATENT” on the right side of the frame, and the patent marking “D.R.P./No. 75837” on the front toggle link. A series of “crown/letter” (B, U,
and G) proofs are present on the barrel, extension,
and toggle assembly, with the “172,28” bore diameter
on the left side of the barrel and matching external serial
numbers. Fine niter blue and straw colors are present on the small parts, with smooth borders on the finely checkered hardwood grip panels and a nickel finished wood base magazine; matching numbers are present on both grip panels (black ink) and the magazine base (stamped). Included in the grouping is a matching numbered hardwood shoulder stock properly marked “GESETZLICH GESCHUTZT” on the lower edge with attached leather holster, a small nickel finished oiler, and a brass combination cleaning rod and oiler with magazine-shaped wooden storage case.
NOTICE THE MATCHING STOCK
CONDITION: Fine, with 70% of the original blue finish, showing areas of brown patina, bright edge wear, mild spotting, and light handling marks. 40% of the straw and niter blue colors are present on the small parts, with a mixed brown and gray patina on the remainder. The grips are very good, with some minor dings and
dents on the otherwise sharp checkering. The stock is very good, with the catch hardware being a bit stiff, some dents on the left side between the holster strap slots, and mild wear. The holster is showing wear and tear typical of age, with cracking on the straps, an absent front plug, and some lost stitching. Both the oiler and cleaning rod set are in good order. The extension is a bit sluggish in movement, and the frame hook for the toggle lock mechanism is absent, otherwise the pistol is mechanically very good.
Estimate: 16,000 - 22,500
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