Argentine Loewe M1891 Mauser 7.65x53mm Bolt Action Rifle, 1890s Antique
SOLD FOR: $2,175.00
LSB#: LSB250529BS013
Make: Ludwig Loewe, Germany
Model: 1891 Infantry Rifle
Serial Number: G0064
Year of Manufacture: 1891 – 1896
Caliber: 7.65x53mm
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver has an Argentine crest. The sides of the receiver are marked, “G0064 / MAUSER MODELO ARGENTINO 1891 / MANUFACTURA LOEWE BERLIN”. All serialized parts are matched including the cleaning rod. There are small Argentine proofs throughout. The bayonet is marked with, “MODELO ARGENTINO 1891 / D5570 / WEYERSBERG KIRSCHAEUM&Co. SOLINGEN” with an Argentine crest.
Barrel Length: 29”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade post dovetailed into a knurled ramped base. The rear sight is a folding two-position v-notch ladder sight marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood stock is a two piece wood with a forend cap/bayonet lug, barrel band w/ sling loop, straight wrist, sling loop, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are moderate handling marks throughout with some small chips. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is pronounced. There is light erosion throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 8.5/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 92% of its metal finish. There is light thinning on the edges with spots of patina and some rust spots throughout. The screw heads show light tool marks. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition. The bayonet is in Excellent condition and retains its leather frog.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Bayonet, Leather sling.
Our Assessment: The Argentine Model 1891 Mauser, produced by Ludwig Loewe of Berlin, represents one of the earliest and most refined iterations of the smokeless powder military bolt-action rifle. Chambered in 7.65x53mm Argentine, this rifle was part of Argentina’s effort to modernize its armed forces in the late 19th century. With its advanced (for the time) five-round internal box magazine, straight bolt handle, and excellent machining, the M1891 helped position Argentina as one of the best-armed nations in South America. Loewe’s manufacturing, later continued by DWM, set a global standard for precision and reliability in military arms. This particular example, serial number G0064, is an antique—manufactured between 1891 and 1896—and remains in remarkable condition for its age. All serialized parts match, including the cleaning rod, which is a major plus for collectors. Unlike many export-surplus examples, this rifle retains its original Argentine crest on the receiver, making it an especially desirable piece. The rifle still holds about 92% of its original blued finish, with only light thinning, areas of patina, and a few minor spots of rust from age and service. The bore is semi-bright with well-defined rifling and light, consistent erosion—rating 8.5/10 by antique standards. The two-piece stock is solid and free from cracks, showing only moderate handling wear and minor chipping. It’s accompanied by an excellent-condition original bayonet marked by Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Co. Solingen, complete with matching Argentine crest and a leather frog. The inclusion of a leather sling rounds out a historically rich, complete package.
For collectors of South American military arms, Mauser rifles, or 19th-century military bolt-actions, this Argentine Loewe M1891 stands out. With its original crest, full matching numbers, and excellent bayonet, it represents both historical integrity and collectible completeness. Whether as a centerpiece in a Mauser collection or a striking representative of early smokeless military rifles, this example offers strong appeal and investment-grade quality. -R.E.
