Erfurt Luger Serial Numbers

Erfurt

[Last Edit: 7/19/2012 11:50:42 PM EDT by panzersergeant]
Erfurt Luger Serial Numbers
Just picked this up at a gunshow yesterday. Very nice condition with all matching numbers except for the magazine. The attention to detail on these pistols is amazing; the Germans even proof-marked the grip screws!
There is no pitting but there is some discoloration to the bluing, kind of a reddish-orange hue that I can only see in the photos. 'Germany' is stamped into the right frame rail in very small font.
I am new to Lugers and I'd like to get an idea of what Luger enthusiasts here think this is worth before posting what I gave for it.
TIA.

Luger Serial Number Identification

Luger

by American Rifleman Staff - Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Image shown is an example of a German Erfurt Royal Arsenal Luger circa 1913, courtesy iCollector.com.

Q:
I have questions about the history, current value, collectability and other aspects of a German Luger in my possession. I cannot seem to find any markings or stamps that indicate the model designation or maker. There is a crown marking, and under that mark is stamped “ERFURT” with the numerals “03”. The serial number is only four digits, and is stamped on the left side of the frame. Additionally, the “03” stamping appears on other parts of the gun. I cannot make out a series of stamps just aft of the barrel. Otherwise, it appears to be in excellent condition.

Erfurt Luger Serial Numbers

The 1923 Commercial Luger variation are those Lugers in the commercial serial number range of approximately 73,500 to 96,000 (about 18,000 pistols). These were pistols made in the 1920's for commercial sale in Germany and elsewhere.

A: Between 1910 and 1918, Luger pistols were made at the Royal Arsenal in Erfurt. Two variations were made: the standard military model with a 4' barrel and the Artillery model with an 8' barrel. On most Luger pistols the year of manufacture is stamped on the frame over the chamber. Without better information we cannot identify specific markings, but those are either proof or inspector marks. The last two digits of the serial number—on yours probably “03”—are stamped on many of the parts. Due to the relatively short production life, Erfurt-built pistols are desirable to collectors, but you will need a qualified appraiser who can examine the gun to give you a value.
—Charles E. Petty

1917 Erfurt Luger Serial Numbers

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