Luger holster - numbers question

[Viewfinder]

Here is a Luger Holster marked Genschow & Co, Berlin 1940. It is in very nice condition, however, someone cut the numbers: M2338 into the back side. They are approimately 2 inches long.

I was wondering if anyone might know what these numbers represent and why they are there? Is it a serial number?

Any information would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Jerry

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[Johnny Peppers]

Probably the result of some past owner with too much idle time and a sharp knife. Not military.

[GWA]

Abbreviated US Service number.

[phild]

Abbreviated US Service number.

I agree. Normally there should have been a hyphen after the letter....but not always done that way by any means. There was lots of war trophies that "walked away" from the vets starting at the unit, return deployment camps, troop ships and even rail tranport back in the U.S......not to mention the mail service...all have been repeated to me many times by vets.

[JoeW]

By service number, do you mean the GI's ID number or something else? Would US vehicles have been numbered like that? Say a tank?

[Dan Niles]

Quote by Joe W
By service number, do you mean the GI's ID number or something else? Would US vehicles have been numbered like that? Say a tank?

No, it would be the first initial of his last name and last 4 digits of his serial number. You see this on US GI gear a lot, webbing, clothes, etc. Very common to see this on captured pieces also. As was mentioned above, left no doubt who owned the item. Nice holster by the way, love these vet bring back items

Regards,
Dan

[Johnny Peppers]

I occasionally see the GI's name on a captured holster, but have missed seeing the initial/number. Anyone have any additional WWII examples?

[Gary Cain]

It's common on American uniforms and equipment. Here's one from an M42 Jump set I have. I have seen them on many pices of captured equipment I've just never bothered to photograph them as it was commonplace.

[Johnny Peppers]

I probably wasn't clear with my question. It was noted as being common on captured pieces also, and just wanted to know if anyone here had additional examples.