Early K Date Code Mauser Luger P08 9mm 4” Semi Auto Pistol MFD 1934 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,825.00
LSB#: WY241116SS002
Make: Mauser
Model: Luger P08,
Serial Number: 8452
Year of Manufacture: 1934 (K date Code)
Caliber: Nine Millimeter Luger (9mm Parabellum)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, fed by detachable magazines
Markings: The front of the frame is marked “8452”, the left frame flat is marked “P.08”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “8452 / 883”, the right-rear has an eagle clutching globe and the left has an eagle waffenamt. The left of the barrel extension is marked “52”, the chamber ring with “52” and the right with two eagle waffenamts and an eagle clutching globe. The top of the front toggle is marked “s/42 / 52”. The left of the body, the floorplate is marked “52”. The sideplate is marked “52”, found again on the toggle pin, rear toggle, front toggle, extractor, bolt, firing pin, sear bar, trigger, and safety bar. The takedown lever and bolt stop are not marked.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V-notch” integral to the toggle assembly.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood, showing light handling wear and scattered small marks. The checkering remains well-defined, with minor smoothing in high-contact areas. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1 magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Partially refurbished / refinished. Not all parts have the “S” inspection mark. Some parts may have been forced matched.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is no notable erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 75% of its metal finish. The balance shows thinning and finish wear with light handling marks and some holster wear on the muzzle. The straw-colored small parts show expected wear from age. The screw heads are unmarred and serviceable. The markings are sharp and legible. Overall, this pistol rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 1 Magazine as mentioned above and leather holster.
Our Assessment: The Mauser Luger P08 is a historic firearm that captures the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its innovative toggle-lock design and reputation for precision engineering have made it one of the most recognizable handguns of the 20th century. The “K” marking on this example tells an intriguing story, as it was part of a coding system used by the German military to obscure the identity of the manufacturer—Mauser—during the rearmament period leading up to World War II. These pistols were widely issued to Wehrmacht forces and became a symbol of German military power. The combination of its rich history, unmatched design, and military use makes the Luger a cornerstone of any firearm collection.
This particular pistol shows some indications of being partially refurbished or refinished, which is not uncommon for Lugers that have seen significant use over their long history. While the serial numbers on the visible parts match, it is possible that some parts were force-matched during its service life, a practice frequently seen in pistols maintained for military use. Despite this, the pistol retains much of its original character and remains a fine example of an early Mauser Luger. It offers a chance for collectors to own a piece of history while appreciating the craftsmanship that made these pistols legendary. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
