Manufactured prior to World War I, this excellent Erfurt Model 1908 Military Luger shows a number of early features that would be eliminated from the German-issued Luger during the course of the war. This exact pistol is listed by its serial number, date, manufacturer and unit marking in Jan C. Still's book "Central Powers Pistols" on page 271. Unit marking "B.1.R.M.G.21." stamped on the front grip strap, which signifies the Bavarian 1. Infanterie-Regiment (Infantry Regiment), Maschinengewehr-Kompagnie (Machine Gun Company), waffe (weapon) number 21. The lot is also accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from noted author Jan C. Still's family verifying it was in his personal collection. "1912" dated chamber with the "crown/ERFURT" marking on the front toggle link, the back strap is smooth correctly with no provision for stock attachment, the frame is solid with no cuts for a hold-open device, and the serial numbers are in the "commercial" pattern. The absence of the hold-open alteration is noteworthy, as most Model 1908 Military Lugers seen today were arsenal retrofitted to accept the device. "Crown/gothic letter" proofs stamped on the right of the extension, with imperial eagle firing proofs on the extension, barrel and breech block. With straw finished small parts, niter blue pins, springs, and grip screws; and checkered walnut grips. Minus the magazine, visible serial numbers are matching overall, including the interior of both grip panels. The magazine is nickel finished with a walnut base numbered "3783/e" also marked with a "+" and crown stamps. Includes a brown leather holster marked "AWM/9/13" and "B" on the front; and unit stampings lightly visible on the interior of the flap that read "9.I.R.M.G.K." for a corresponding Infantry Regiment, Machine Gun Company. Provenance: The Jan C. Still Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Exceptionally fine, retains 85% original blue finish with some light edge wear, a few patches of minor pitting, and light freckling. 70% original straw colors remain on the small components. Grips are also very fine with a few small nicks in the otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Holster is excellent with some light handling marks and supple leather.