^Lot 1602 Scarce Documented WWII Krieghoff "P" Code "Side Inscribed" Commercial Contract Luger Pistol

This is an example of a seldom found "P" code commercial contract Luger that has the very rare Krieghoff "Side Frame Inscription" markings with the Commercial "Eagle N" proof marks. This scarce pistol is clearly described on page 196 and 197 of Gibson's excellent book on Krieghoff lugers. It is estimated that less than "10" of these commercial contract "P" code Lugers with the side inscription were produced. This specific pistol has the correct blank chamber area with the C-2 Krieghoff die markings on top of the toggle, that has the "I" in Krieghoff centered over the "S" in Suhl with the slightly slanted "U". The right side of the barrel extension has the correct five pointed star indicating that this part was rejected for military acceptance. The left side of the barrel extension, the left frame rail, the underside of the barrel and top of the breechblock, all have the small Crown "N" proof indicating commercial sales. The underside of the barrel is also proofed with the small "LWaA" 1st acceptance-stage I markings. As noted, this specific pistol has the rare side frame markings in three lines, that consist of "Heinrich Krieghoff/Waffenfabrik/Suhl". This pistol has a transition type serial numbering sequence with the full number on the frame, barrel extension, top of the front toggle, side plate and takedown lever, with no number on the barrel, trigger, and firing pin. The side of the breechblock has a small number "6" which may be an assembly number. This pistol has the high polish Krieghoff blue finish with the straw colored smaller parts. It is fitted with a set of late production unmarked brown plastic grips with fine checkering and smooth border. The pistol is complete with one tin plated Police type magazine marked "Haenel SCHMEISSER PATENT" on the side with the aluminum base, numbered "34/1"
BBL: 3 7/8 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 9 mm Luger
Finish: blue
Grips: brown plastic checkered
Serial Number: P108
Condition: Very fine as partially restored (numbers added on side plate and other small parts) with 90% of the original Krieghoff blue finish, with wear on the edges and high spots, with some minor scratching on the front grip strap with some minor professional bluing touch up on the rear grip strap and front of frame. The grips are in excellent condition with minor handling marks. The various small parts retain 70% of their straw colors overall. The various parts are all numbered accordingly as noted above with the side plate having been factory renumbered. Still an excellent example of a very scarce early "P" code marked Krieghoff Luger.