Original American Eagle Marked Luger?

[usp_fan]

My friend's father recently passed down to him a Luger that was owned by his grandfather. It is in great shape and has the American Eagle crest on the barrel band of the receiver. I understand there were only a small number imported in the early 20th century for the US civilian market. Is this true? and What might be a value for this pistol?

It'll never be sold, I'm just curious.

Thanks,

--usp_fan

 

[Jim K]

There were several different batches of American Eagle Lugers imported at different periods, from 1900 to 1970. Some are very rare and valuable, others much less so. Can you provide pictures of the whole gun, and also of the top of the gun with the toggle marking and the "eagle"? The caliber and serial number would help also.

Jim

 

[usp_fan]

I will ask him for pictures. This pistol is very old. It pre-dates WWII and I want to say even predates WWI. At least according to family lore. I'll see what I can find out.

--usp_fan

 

[Sunray]

The was a .45 ACP Luger made for the U.S. market with that name. Seems to me there was one in the competition for the U.S. military's new pistol before the Colt was accepted.

 

[1 old 0311]

They made 12,000 originals in 7.65mm. The value is up to $5,000.

 

[Jim K]

It depends on what is meant by "original". There were 12,000 Model 1900 American Lugers made. There were some 600-700 9mm Model 1902's made, and 50 1902 "cartridge counter" Lugers; value on the latter ranges up to $40k.

Then there were another 10-11,000 Model 1906 American Eagle Lugers, most in 7.65mm. So, there were quite a few AL Lugers imported prior to WWII.

The two or three .45 Lugers made for U.S. Army testing are, of course, special cases, and it is not likely that any will turn up in anyone's attic.

Jim