[AndyG]

I bought this pistol at a local gunshop.
What possibility is it that this was original?
Any idea on the year of manufacture?
Thankyou, Andy

Download Attachment: IMG_1094.JPG
96.08KB

Download Attachment: IMG_1096.JPG
89.7KB

 

[Olefogey]

Based on your pictures, I woud say that this is a re-plating. It appears that the surface is textured (mild pitting?) and that the surfaces and edges are not crisp!! This is all based on your photos.

Dave

 

[AndyG]

Thats my conjecture as well. A typical veterans story, forgotten over the years, and the fog of war.
Andy

 

[Guest]

There was a booming business in France after WW2 of plating bring-back pistols for the GIs waiting transport on the returning ships. All it took was a chunk of chrome, a tank of solution and a car battery. They specialized in making "captured Officer's Pistols" for the GIs. Often they made clear plastic grips with the GI's girl's picture stuck underneath. Usually found without the photos nowadays.
I am of two minds about these guns. First, they are NOT original anymore, but Second, they are a real piece of WW2 history. I don't think I would try to restore one that some GI put so much effort into to impress his family, girlfriend, etc.