East German PM Makarov 9×18 3.6” Semi-Automatic DA/SA Pistol, C&R 1964
SOLD FOR: $1,000.00
LSB#: LSB250908GM001
Make: East German, CIA Import (Century International Arms)
Model: Makarov, PM
Serial Number: ES 1843
Year of Manufacture: 1964 C&R
Caliber: 9×18mm Makarov
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Center Fire, DA/SA
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “ES 1843”. The left side of the frame is marked “K100” in a box and “ES 1843 64”. The right side of the frame is marked “Makarov mod. M9x18mm / Ernst Thaelmann. Germany / G.PTRAD.St. Alb. Vt.”.
Barrel Length: 3.6” Approximate
Sights / Optics: The sights are open iron sights. The front sight is a blade, integral to the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the slide. The top of the slide is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered red wood panels. There are no chips or cracks. There is little to no wear throughout. The checkering is well defined with sharp peaks. The mag release is located under the grip. The polymer grips rate in about Excellent condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 8rd magazine in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion visible. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9 out of 10
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows handling and storage wear. There are a few faint scratches. The leading edges have finish loss due to holster wear. The screw heads are sharp and pins are serviceable. The markings range from clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of one magazine and a holster in about Fine condition.
Our Assessment: Manufactured in 1964 at the Ernst Thälmann Factory, this East German PM reflects what many collectors consider the highest-quality Makarov production run ever made. East German machining, polishing, and bluing standards far surpassed those of later Russian, Bulgarian, and Chinese contracts, giving these pistols a refined fit and finish uncommon among Cold War service sidearms. The matching serialized slide and frame, correct K100 frame proof, and factory-original red bakelite grips all help anchor this example firmly to its 1960s DDR origins—an era when these pistols armed border guards, police, and Stasi units.
This pistol remains in Fine condition with about 97% of its original finish, light holster thinning along the high edges, and clean mechanical function. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, rating 9/10, and the grips retain their distinctive deep red tone with sharp checkering. Included is a period holster and one magazine, rounding out a desirable and representative East German Makarov. These pistols continue to draw strong collector interest due to their workmanship, scarcity, and historical association with the Cold War security apparatus. We are no longer offering layaway. Please see our photos and good luck with your bid! -N.P
