*Imperial German, WW1, P08 Luger by Erfurt, Dated 1918, Matching Numbers, Original Holster, Tool & Spare Magazine , Old-Spec Deactivated*
An excellent Imperial German P08 Luger, manufactured at the Königlich Preußische Gewehrfabrik Erfurt in 1918, the final year of the Great War. This is a matching-number example (serial 2858), with all major components bearing the correct stamped “58” inspection sequence. Chamber dated 1918, toggle marked Crown / ERFURT, and fitted with its original chequered walnut grips.
The pistol has been deactivated to old UK specification (certificate no. 91738, Birmingham Proof House, dated 16 June 2010), allowing the action to cock, strip and dry-fire—ideal for collectors who appreciate functional display examples. Complete with original WWI brown leather holster, spare magazine, and the original combination loading/stripping tool.
Markings:
• Chamber dated 1918
• Toggle marked Crown / ERFURT
• Serial 2858 repeated on frame, barrel, and small parts
• Multiple Crown-over-letter Imperial inspection marks throughout
• Crown RC (Revisions Commission) rework proof on right receiver flat
• Erfurt crossed-arrows arsenal emblem
• Barrel marked 8.82 (bore gauge)
• Magazine numbered 6143 c (non-matching)
Historical Note:
The Erfurt Arsenal, established in 1862, was the principal state arms factory of Imperial Prussia, manufacturing rifles, carbines, and later the P08 Parabellum pistol under DWM license. Lugers produced at Erfurt are distinct for their numerous crowned proof marks, representing individual military inspectors. The 1918 Erfurt represents the final wartime production of the P08 before the armistice—issued widely to front-line infantry, artillery, and air units. Surviving examples in matching condition with original holsters and tools are increasingly scarce, often retained as war trophies by Allied soldiers in 1918–19.
*Condition*
Overall excellent for age, showing service wear consistent with front-line use. Bluing worn to high edges and muzzle, minor spotting to exposed steel. Mechanically sound (old-spec deactivation) with full toggle and safety movement. Grips crisp with light handling wear. Holster retains supple surface, minor scuffing, intact stitching; internal tool pocket and spare-mag pouch complete. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
Deactivation Certificate: Issued by: Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House. Certificate No.: 91738. Date: 16 June 2010. Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol – Erfurt. Calibre: 9mm. Barrel Length: 4". Action: Cocks and dry-fires (old specification).
RQMAGOOXBEOO_5827218360
