Scarce Factory Engraved Spanish Llama VIII 38 Super 5” 1911 Pistol 1960 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,508.88
LSB#: LSB260224HE291
Make: Llama Gabilondo y Cia. Vitoria (Espania)
Model: VIII
Serial#: 237469
Year of Manufacture: 1960 (F*1 Date Code)
Caliber/Gauge: .38 Super
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Automatic Pistol Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “237469”. The left side of the frame is marked with two proofs and an “F*1” Date Code. The left side of the slide is marked “C. 9 m/m (38) ‘LLAMA’ SUPER”. There is a proof on the chamber. There is factory engraving throughout the frame and slide.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to a serrated solid rib. The rear sight is a rectangular notch sight dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two piece imitation pearl panels with Llama medallions. There is little to no handling wear. There is minor age discoloration in the edges. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear. There is some finish loss on the dust cover. The engraving is sharp and attractive. The screwheads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit is snug. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of two original magazines.
Our Assessment: The Llama Model VIII was one of the flagship large-frame pistols produced by Gabilondo y Cia. of Vitoria, Spain, a company best known for manufacturing affordable and visually distinctive semi-automatic pistols throughout much of the twentieth century. Strongly inspired by John Browning’s iconic M1911 design, the Model VIII adapted the familiar Government Model profile into a pistol chambered for the powerful .38 Super cartridge, a chambering that gained considerable popularity in both law enforcement and sporting circles due to its flat trajectory, high velocity, and excellent penetration. Introduced by Colt in 1929, the .38 Super became especially favored in regions where military calibers such as .45 ACP were restricted, helping pistols like the Llama VIII gain international appeal. While Spanish pistols of the era are often appreciated for their value and practical utility, factory engraved examples such as this are encountered far less frequently and offer a much more decorative and collector-oriented presentation than standard production guns.
This example remains in Excellent condition overall, retaining approximately 97 percent of its original blued finish with only light operational wear and some finish loss noted on the dust cover. The factory engraving remains sharp and attractive throughout the slide and frame, complementing the pistol’s classic Government Model styling. The imitation pearl grips with Llama medallions remain exceptionally well preserved with only minor age discoloration at the edges and no noted cracks or chips. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, rating 9 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. Mechanically, the pistol functions correctly with a snug slide-to-frame fit, and the inclusion of two original magazines further enhances the package. Overall, this is an attractive and scarce factory engraved Spanish Llama VIII that combines classic 1911-inspired styling, desirable .38 Super chambering, and ornate period embellishment into a highly eye-catching C&R pistol. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! – L.S.