Bayard 1908

1. Technical Data & IdentificationManufacturer: Anciens Établissements Pieper (AEP)Place of Production: Herstal, BelgiumModel: Bayard Pocket Pistol Model 1908Serial Number: 1382Caliber: 7.65 mm Browning (.32 ACP)Locking System: Mass locking (spring guide above the barrel)Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds 2. Historical Context & Construction PeriodEstimated Year of Manufacture: Late 1909 or early 1910.Production Context: Early civilian pre-war production. The weapon comes from the very first production phase shortly after the market launch. It differs significantly from the later mass productions of World War I (no German military acceptance stamps, purely Belgian civilian proof marks).Constructive Feature: Historically regarded as one of the most compact and flat pocket pistols ever designed for the relatively powerful caliber 7.65 mm. 3. Condition & Preservation GradeBluing: Original preserved. No signs of re-bluing or deep rust damage. Age-related, minimal wear marks (patina) are considered authentic and value-enhancing at this age.Grip Panels: Original black hard rubber grip panels with the "Bayard" inscription. Completely undamaged, no cracks or chips (high rarity value, as the material often becomes brittle with age).Overall Condition: Very good (collector's condition grade 1-2 for historical pre-war weapons). 4. Markings & Stamps (Should Check)Left Slide Side: * CAL. 7.65 MODELE DEPOSE *Left Frame Side: Company logo (knight on horseback / "Bayard") and inscription Anciens Etablissements Pieper Herstal-Belgique.Proof Marks: Belgian proof stamps from the proof house in Liège (including the stylized tower "Perron", the lion over "PV" and the crowned "E L G" in an oval).