BYF Luger question for a "black widow"

[tharpo]

$2000 seems a little high for a gun in that condition.

[army_inc]

Would you say between $1500 to $1750? Also, I looked on the front and I didn't see a letter or prefix after the serial number. Was there always a prefix or letter? Or were some just blank?

[pitts duncan]

Also keep in mind that current theory is that on Byf41 models the black grips only show up after a certain suffix, fake grips are all over the place, and their are at least six variants of original black bakelite grips. Welcome to the scary world of firearms collecting!

my thoughts exactly post pix so we can see and let you know if ok. ok?

[Johnny Peppers]

Also, I looked on the front and I didn't see a letter or prefix after the serial number. Was there always a prefix or letter? Or were some just blank?

Right at the end of 1941 production Mauser reached the z letter serial number suffix, and started back over with no suffix, and got into the a letter suffix serial number range before switching to 1942 production.

[army_inc]

the SN is 3551 with no suffix. I'll try to take pictures of the grips tonight to see if they are original or reproduction. I took them off and see noting on them. They are blank on the inside, I think, if I remember correctly, there may be one letter on them, but I'll look to double check. How would I be able to tell if the grips or repro or original?

[jonathanseverin]

There are a few ways to tell if the grips are original.
I can't remember if it applies to all the variations, but if yours have threaded holes that fit the grip screws that's good.
Also the hot pin test on the inside, if the heated pins goes into the grips its a repro, should barely leave a mark on Bakelite.
Jonathan.

[army_inc]

I'll have to look at the holes. I can't remember if they are threaded or not. I will also try the hot pin test. If they are repro, I may just get a wooden grip for the hell of it.

[army_inc]

They are threaded. Seems to be legit grips so far!