Extremely Rare Cartridge Counter DWM 1902 Luger

Description

9/3/26 - This is an extremely rare and historically significant DWM Model 1902 Cartridge Counter Luger. One of only 50 produced, all in the serial range of 22,401-22,450. Produced on order from the U.S. Board of Ordnance circa 1902-1903, the Cartridge Counter Luger was originally requested as a straight 1:1 replacement for a batch of Lugers already in American inventory, an upgrade from 7.65mm to the more potent 9mm. These Lugers were fitted with the Powell Indicating Device, which consists of a numbered guide bar and celluloid plastic window installed in the left grip panel, and a specially prepared magazine with an extension on the left side of the follower. The Cartridge Counter examples were all chambered in 9mm Luger and featured the early fat barrel design. Obviously, this example no longer has the original grips with said indicator inside.  It also does not retain the original magazine for this variation either.  The finish on this pistol has been professionally restored, but has a nice appearance and markings are still clearly visible.  Numbered parts are matching aside from trigger and sideplate, which are mismatched.  Sideplate has a 3 digit number of '414', so could be a factory error given the proximity of serial and rarity of the variation.  Bore shows heavy use, with worn rifling and some pitting throughout.  Seems mechanically sound overall.    Only 50 ever produced, and one of ~25 known!