POTD: Mauser Model 1912 Prototype – 9mm Luger Experiment

Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Here we have Mauser Model 1912 prototype serial number 13 in 9mm Luger, one of a very limited number manufactured around 1912 for experimental purposes. This exact pistol and its internal workings are pictured on pages 93-94 of “Mauser Pistolen” by Weaver, Speed, and Schmid.

Mauser’s smaller 6.35mm Model 1910 pistol achieved commercial success, so they attempted scaling up its features for larger handgun designs. The Model 1912 used a retarded blowback system with two-piece “locking” block. Later versions switched to a “flap” system similar to the Model 06/08 pistols. Most Model 1912 pistols didn’t survive testing, making survivors extremely rare.

This first version features the earlier straight 1910-style grip frame, fixed blade front sight on the barrel, and dovetail rear sight on the slide. The slide is hand-inscribed “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER/OBERNDORF A.N./MAUSER’S PATENT” on the left. Serial number “13” appears on the frame, slide, barrel, takedown release, trigger, interior of the grip, magazine, and various internal components.

The one-piece checkered wraparound walnut grip is distinctive. From Clive Cussler’s collection, this represents an evolutionary footnote in Mauser pistol development – an ambitious attempt to bring the successful Model 1910’s features to a more powerful cartridge that ultimately didn’t proceed to production.

Most of our POTDs utilize images from our friends at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms auction in the United States. Take some time to browse their current auctions – who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece of history to take home!

“Experimental Prototype German Mauser Model 1912 Pistol.” Rock Island Auction, www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4096/1390/experimental-prototype-german-mauser-model-1912-pistol. Accessed 4 Mar. 2026.

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