WWI German Erfurt Luger P.08 9mm 4” Military Semi-Automatic Pistol 1917 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,383.95

LSB#: LSB251208RC021

Make: Royal Arsenal Erfurt

Model: P.08, Luger

Serial Number: 200j

Year of Manufacture: 1917

Caliber: 9mm Luger (9x19mm)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Short Recoil, Toggle-Locked, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Barrel Length: 4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade dovetailed to a base integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” notch integral to the rear toggle.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut. The interior of each grip is marked “00” with Erfurt inspection marks. The grips have even light handling wear and some discoloration. There are a few scattered light marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Strawed

Finish Originality: Original. Numbered parts match, the firing pin is not marked.

Bore Condition: The bore is dark. The rifling shows some wear but is reasonably well defined. There is erosion and pitting scattered through the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 4/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 80% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. There is evenly scattered minor surface oxidation with infrequent minor erosion. There are some scattered light nicks and scratches. The strawed parts have mostly muted. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are generally clear, some Erfurt inspection marks are poorly struck. Overall, this pistol is in Good-plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrel assembly has barely perceptible play to the frame. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A single non-matching wood floorplate magazine is included.

Our Assessment: The Luger P08, one of the most iconic pistols in history, was widely used by the German military during both World Wars. This particular example, manufactured by Erfurt in 1917, was produced during the height of World War I, when Erfurt was responsible for significant wartime Luger production. As a military-issued pistol, it carries the proper Imperial proof marks and exhibits the robust engineering that made the Luger so legendary.

The P08’s unique toggle-lock action sets it apart from most other semi-automatic handguns, and its grip angle remains one of the most ergonomic designs ever conceived. The Luger was prized for its accuracy, reliability, and high-quality craftsmanship, making it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts today.

This Luger would make an outstanding addition to a historical firearms collection, especially for those interested in WWI-era German arms. With its original finish, matching markings, and solid mechanical function, it is a great example of a military-issued P08. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid!

-Bud