This is another rare example of a early Mannlicher Model 1901 transitional self-loading pistol serial number "53". This rare example has a very narrow front frame extension that measures .80 inches wide while the standard frame measures 1.00 inches. This example also has an unusual lower front and rear grip strap in that they were at some point machined away and then factory fitted with a replacement/repair piece. It almost looks like it may have been an attempt by the factory to develop a removable magazine with the lower front are intended to be fitted with a clip release. This series of pistol uses a blowback operated design that proved to be very robust and durable. The unique feature is that it had an internal, 8 shot magazine that was loaded via stripper clips through the top of the pistol. The Mannlicher pistols and later rifles were all designed by Ferdinand Von Mannlicher, an exceptional early mechanical engineer who teamed with the Steyr factory to produce all of his rifle and pistols from the late 1890s on. The 1901 design was one of Mannlicher's most successful handguns, with approximately 10,000 produced 1901 to 1903. Although tested by both the Austro-Hungarians Army and the U.S. Ordnance, it was officially passed over by the U.S, however was very favorably used by Austria's officer corps. The Model 1901 is chambered for the Austrian 7.63mm Mannlicher Auto cartridge, and the barrel is fitted with a high thick, fixed blade front sight with a fixed notch rear sight mounted on top of the rear edge of the barrel. The left side of the frame is marked: "WAFFENFABRIK/STEYR" with the right side marked "SYSTEM MANNLICHER". It is serial numbered "53" on the underside of the frame extension, the left side of the barrel and chamber area. It is fitted with standard checkered walnut grips with a lanyard loop on the butt of the frame.

Very good condition with 50% of the blue finish overall with some very minor cold blue touch up on the sides of the frame and lower areas of the grip straps. The markings are clear and sharp. The undersize grips are in good condition with distinct checkering on both sides with the left side having been recheckered. An interesting early Mannlicher Model 1901 pistol.