Rare Persian Marked Astra 900 Broomhandle Pistol

Serial #25582, 7.63 x 25mm (.30 Mauser), 7 1/2" barrel with an excellent, bright bore. This is an interesting and handsome pistol that retains 99% plus blue finish, possibly done in Iran at the time of use. Large Persian national crest on the left side of the magazine, and a small sunburst marking on the left side of the receiver above the crest. We have been made aware since listing the pistol that these guns were most likely ordered for Pahlavi royal guard and used until the guns were replaced by the M3A1 Grease Gun. the The safety lever, rear sight, and receiver block retain a commensurate amount of an added nitre blue finish, and the barrel was lengthened to approximate that of the Model 902 Broomhandle. All markings and edges have been left clear and quite sharp, with the markings filled in with white for greater clarity. The grooved wooden grip panels are both numbered to the gun on the interior, and are in very good-fine shape with some minor handling marks and very minor blemishes in the added varnish. There is virtually no information available on these Persian-marked Astras, but one other such pistol, practically identical in every way, was sold by a major auction house in 2011. That example has the same finish in excellent condition, marked with both the Persian crest and small sunburst, and had the barrel lengthened. This is a remarkable pistol, in excellent condition, and would make a great addition to any collection. FFL or C&R