Rare Engraved Sauer 38h

Published on June 10, 2025
Duration: 7:37

This video explores two exceptionally rare engraved Sauer 38h pistols, highlighting their potential as unissued presentation pieces or late-war factory items. The presenter, an experienced firearms instructor, notes the scarcity of engraved Sauers compared to Walthers and discusses features like late-war notches and the absence of proof marks, suggesting they were likely brought home by GIs as souvenirs.

Quick Summary

Engraved Sauer 38h pistols are exceptionally rare, with experts estimating a 20:1 ratio compared to engraved Walthers. The absence of proof marks and serial numbers suggests they were unissued presentation pieces or late-war factory items, likely brought home by GIs as souvenirs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Rare Engraved Sauer 38h
  2. 00:12Love for German Pistols & Engraved Walthers
  3. 00:23The 'Twins': Serial Numbers and Late War Features
  4. 00:34Unissued or Presentation Pieces
  5. 00:52GI Souvenirs from the Factory
  6. 01:00Engraving Placement and Personalization
  7. 01:17Comparison to Engraved Walthers
  8. 01:29Rarity of Engraved Sauers
  9. 01:33Wisdom: Sauers Not Typically Engraved Pre-1945
  10. 01:47First Engraved Sauer: Gold Engraving
  11. 01:54Factory vs. Local Engravers
  12. 02:06Late War Features: Notches
  13. 02:20Rarity Estimate: 20:1 Ratio
  14. 02:31Missing Logo and 'Suhl Germany' Engraving
  15. 02:50Absence of Proof Marks and Serial Numbers
  16. 03:02Floral Engraving Details
  17. 03:18Standard Grips and Unengraved Bottom
  18. 03:36Unissued in Factory Theory
  19. 03:48Call for Information
  20. 03:51Expert Mention: Jim Kate (Sauer Author)
  21. 04:32Awaiting Fancier Grips?
  22. 04:44Second Sauer: Oak Leaf and Acorn Engraving
  23. 04:57No Proof Mark on Ejection Port or Tang
  24. 05:14Blank Plate: Presentation Gun Theory
  25. 05:28Nazi Insignia Grips on Second Gun
  26. 05:37Engraved Screws
  27. 05:44Saurin Sun Logo and Nazi Logo
  28. 05:47Made for Presentation, Never Presented
  29. 06:06Difference in Engraving Depth
  30. 06:10Front Strap Detail
  31. 06:12Unengraved Magazine
  32. 06:19Grip Aesthetics
  33. 06:25Value Unknown
  34. 06:38Walther PP/PPK Engraved Value Range
  35. 06:58Seeking More Information
  36. 07:16Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are engraved Sauer 38h pistols considered so rare?

Engraved Sauer 38h pistols are exceptionally rare, with experts estimating that for every one engraved Sauer encountered, approximately twenty engraved Walthers are seen. This rarity stems from Sauer's production focus and the typical market for engraved firearms.

What suggests these Sauer 38h pistols were unissued or presentation pieces?

The absence of proof marks and serial numbers on these Sauer 38h pistols indicates they were likely in the factory at the end of WWII. They may have been intended for presentation or special order but were never officially proofed or issued before the war concluded.

What are the typical late-war features found on these Sauer 38h pistols?

Late-war production features on these Sauer 38h pistols include specific notches on the slide. While less pronounced on one example, these notches are detectable and serve as indicators of the firearm's production period towards the end of World War II.

How do engraved Sauer 38h pistols compare in value to engraved Walthers?

While the exact value of these specific Sauer 38h pistols is unknown, engraved Walther PP and PPK models can fetch prices ranging from $15,000 to $50,000. The rarity of engraved Sauers suggests they could command a significant premium if they were to come to market.

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