This video looks at the different markings that can be found on the Luger and P38 pistol series with examples at hand. I tried to make it as straight forward as possible. It is a little lengthy, but there is good visual information pertaining to these guns. Questions, comments etc.

• Erfurt Luger Serial Numbers 3813

You guys know what to do. If there is anyone with any mark or stamp questions, it may be best to PM and we can send pics, or post a video response and include some macro setting pics or something of the like. I'd be more than happy to check any info out in either of the books if someone else doesn't have access.1918/1920 DWM double stamp Luger, and the 1918 Erfurt/S/42 Luger, P-08 models as well as the byf 43 P-39. All three pistols are chambered in 9mm Luger (9 x 19mm).

I am in need of a favor. Some friends of mine are looking at the value of an old German Luger.

Rifleman Q&A: Erfurt Royal Arsenal Luger. 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.

Erfurt Luger Serial Numbers 3813

It was removed off of a German officer during WWI by their great grandfather who shot and killed this officer. I was supposed to have pics, but as of yet I dont.I have viewed this gun.

• DWM Luger P-08 9mm Pistol. The serial number on the frame is accompanied by the DWM suffix 'h' indicating manufacture in 1918. (WW I ended on 11 November 1918.) Except for the 'Made in Germany' frame stamp, these are all typical DWM/German markings.
• It has over 4,000 entries, spanning the serial number range from the first 1900 commercial series guns through the end of the 5-digit number system, and continuing through the v suffix of the Alphabet Commercials.

It has 1917 on the barrel, it has the German Eagle on the barrell, sides and holster. There are other markings that I could not make out. I would say the finish is in about 60% condition. It looks like the grips are home made, but the wood on the grips matches the wood on the bottom of the two magazines.Without being able to see this weapon ( I will try to get the gun here and post pics this evening ), would anyone venture a value on this?.I know this is not a USGI weapon, but fealt this was the closest match for my inquiry. Avoid the temptation to replace everything on your brand-new 1911 just to make it 'better'. Know what you're changing out and why.

You may spend a lot of money fixing things that weren't broken to begin with. Shoot at least 500 rounds through it first, then decide what you don't like and want to improve. Regarding vintage 1911s, pre-1970 pistols are highly collectible in original, unaltered condition and should NEVER be refinished or modified as it completely ruins their monetary value. Can't really tell from the pictures, but the grips may be the original grips with the checkering sanded off. Are there any marks on the back of the grips?

Be very careful in removing the left grip, as they are commonly found with a chip gone where the grip goes under the safety. Lift the grip up from the bottom and slide it out from under the safety before it is lifted very high.The macro setting on most cameras is easier to use with the lens in wide angle (not zoomed out).

Check that along with the info Dana gave on the flower icon indicating macro. With the macro on this camera. U can zoom in or out. It really is a Wally World special.

Works great when you arent looking for closeup detail, but I am about to go and attempt this again. If they arent any better, I wont be posting new pics.Just went out and tried again before I lost sunlight. Not any better at all.Based on what you can see. Can anyone estimate a value for this Luger, 2 mags and holster? Holster has a 1938, Eagle and Genschow & Co. Berlin on it.

(I think I was told WWI on this gun, but the holster makes me think WWII)The family also has the documentation from when this was brought home as a war trophy through the military. Avoid the temptation to replace everything on your brand-new 1911 just to make it 'better'. Know what you're changing out and why. You may spend a lot of money fixing things that weren't broken to begin with. Shoot at least 500 rounds through it first, then decide what you don't like and want to improve. Regarding vintage 1911s, pre-1970 pistols are highly collectible in original, unaltered condition and should NEVER be refinished or modified as it completely ruins their monetary value.