Historic DWM 1902 Cartridge Counter Luger

Description

1/6/26 - 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. When the magazine is fully loaded, this follower extension rests at the "7" position, advancing upward with the follower as rounds are discharged, permitting the soldier to determine his remaining rounds by merely looking at the grip. In the end, the design was rejected as the U.S. military desired more stopping power than a 9mm pistol provided. The Cartridge Counter examples were all chambered in 9mm Luger and featured the early fat barrel design. All numbered parts on this particular example are matching, and the pistol is in very good condition. It retains 85-90% of the original blue, with wear on the high points, and scratches/patina on the straps. Shiny bore but it does show minor frost and freckling. The grips show handling wear and smoothing, but no major cracks or chips.  The listing includes a total of three magazines.