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Approximately 1,000 Bulgarian Contract DWM Model 1900 Luger pistols were produced
194
LOT 3348
Extremely Rare DWM Model 1900 Bulgarian Contract Luger Semi-
Automatic Pistol with Scarce Early Pattern
Bulgarian Holster -
Serial no. 20130, 7.65 mm Luger Auto cal., 4 3/4 inch round bbl., blue/straw
finish, walnut grips. This is an exceptionally fine example
of one of the most elusive variations
in Luger collecting, the Bulgarian Contract DWM
Model 1900. Reportedly 1,000 of these pistols were drawn
from the standard Model 1900 commercial pistol production to fulfill the contract, and they fall in the 20000-21000 serial number range. These pistols saw many years of service through both World Wars, with many being captured by the Soviets and never resurfacing. On p. 58 of “Lugers at Random” by Charles Kenyon, he states that most of these were refinished, reworked, and/or rechambered to 9 mm during their service lives, leaving only two or three original examples known to the collectors market and a handful more that have been converted. This specific pistol falls early in the known range of serial numbers and has the correct Bulgarian crest on the chamber and the DWM monogram on the front toggle. The upper safe position of the thumb safety is correctly marked in Cyrillic, these pistols being the first Lugers to have a marked thumb safety. The full serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel and front of the frame, and the last two and three digits of the serial number are marked on various small parts. The extractor is correctly unmarked. Both grips are stamped “30” on the insides. It is fitted with blade and notch sights, fully checkered grips, and a correct pattern, unmarked, nickeled magazine with a wood base. Included with this pistol is an early pattern Bulgarian leather holster with the dual magazine pouches attached to the front under the flap, and dual tool pouch in the top under the flap. There are two very faint markings inside the flap in black ink. Also included is a combination cleaning rod/oiler, a takedown tool, a drift punch, an extra correct pattern magazine, and a walnut stand. This pistol and holster are both exceptionally rare on their own, but finding both in such high condition and paired together is nearly unheard of! CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retains 80% plus of the original blue finish and 60% of the original straw colors with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina, primarily on edges and the grip straps, and a few scattered small patches of very light surface pitting. The grips are very fine with only the slightest handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The holster is very good with some mild wear and age related cracking and a minor tear at the bottom near the muzzle area. The remaining accessories are also very good with generally mild wear. Provenance: The Klaus Meyer Collection. Estimate: 15,000 - 25,000