Luger P-08 9MM Pistol
The Luger is obsolete today, but still quite attractive to collectors. Its sleek design and its infamous connection to Nazi Germany have been factors in its continued popularity. Thousands of Lugers were brought to the US as souveneirs by American GIs after WW II, and many are still in circulation.
World War II Bill Mauldin cartoon from Stars & Stripes. Original caption: "Luger, $100 ... camera, $150 ... Iron Cross, $12 ... it is good to be captured by Americans." Image © Stars and Stripes.
Luger and P-38 pistols are often confused with one another, as both were developed and manufactured to be used by the German army during WW I and WW II. Several million pistols were produced by many different makers, in different arsenals, in Germany, Switzerland and England. In addition, multitudes of commercial versions were manufactured before and after both wars.
Luger P-08 9MM Pistol Markings
The vast majority of the pistols were stamped with a four-digit serial number. This number cycle was repeated monthly by the various arsenals, thus making it possible to have between 250 and 300 pistols bearing the same serial number. Distinguishing factors making the identification of each pistol unique are the alpha letter appearing beneath or following the serial number; the year of manufacture; and the individual arsenal/code markings on each pistol. The serial number, always stamped on the frame, may also appear on the receiver and barrel. If the serial numbers don't match, this indicates the pistol was assembled from parts of several pistols. The last two digits of the original serial number may appear in several places on the gun as a parts number. Sometimes the same serial number will be stamped in multiple places on the gun, but will only include the letter suffix below the barrel, ahead of the trigger guard.
The following chart shows the individual arsenal/code markings and lettering used by the various manufacturers. These markings apply to Lugers as well as P-38 Pistols
| Marking | Manufacturer |
|---|---|
| ac | Carl Walther |
| byf | Mauser Werke |
| S/42 | Mauser Werke |
| SVW/45 | Mauser Werke |
| 42 | Simson & Co. (1920-1936) |
| 42 | Mauser & Werke (1937-1940) |
| P-08 | Krieghoff |
| HK | Krieghoff |
| fzs | Krieghoff |
| cyq | Spreewerk |
| DWM | Deutsche Waffen und Munitionsfabrik |
| ERFURT | Made at government arsenal at Erfurt,Germany prior to 1930 |
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