SOLD - 1900 American Eagle DWM Luger - Army Test Range

Description

2/21/23 - This is a rare American Eagle Army Test Luger, produced by DWM. In April of 1901, the United States Board of Ordnance and Fortifications put in an order for 1,000 of these Lugers following test trials in which the model was fired 2,000 times under the harshest conditions possible.  These Lugers feature the Great Seal over the chamber, which was not included upon request, but rather was found to be a great sales tool for the Swiss market by DWM following their initial sales of the same model but featuring the Swiss sunburst.  The characteristics that separate these American Test Eagle Lugers from the other Model 1900 Lugers are the lack of proofs, the lack of a 'GERMANY' export stamp, and the last two digits of the serial number on the right end of the takedown lever.  This particular pistol does not have the last two digits on the takedown lever, but rather on the left side of the takedown lever, and is considered an "out of range" Army Test Luger.  There has been much research, including expert's ranges on pistols that meet many of the Army Test luger characteristics but are not in the most commonly accepted range. The more valued and accepted "Bannerman" range ends at serial 7098, only 80 serials before the one listed above. The finish on this pistol rates somewhere around 90%, with the most noticeable wear found on the high edges and straps.  The grips are numbered to the gun and in very good condition, with minor smoothing/handling wear.  Magazine is correct for this pistol but has a crack in the base.  Excellent bore.