Star Model A “1922 Type” 7.63mm Mauser 7 Inch Semi Auto Pistol
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $2,225.99
The Star Model A series represents one of the earliest successful semi automatic pistol lines produced by Star Bonifacio Echeverria in Eibar, Spain. Influenced by the design language of the Colt 1911 but simplified for production, these pistols helped establish Star as a major firearms manufacturer in the early 20th century. This example, chambered in 7.63mm Mauser and fitted with a longer 7 inch barrel, is a less common variant that offers extended sight radius and increased velocity from the high speed Mauser cartridge.
Identification
MMA#: 260203PH034
Make: Star Bonifacio Echeverria, Spain
Model: A
Serial Number: 6551
Year of Manufacture: 1921 to 1924, C&R
Caliber: 7.63mm Mauser
Action Type: Single action semi automatic pistol with removable magazine
Barrel Length: 7 inches
Sights / Optics
The front sight is a small rounded blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a tangent style adjustable unit calibrated for extended range shooting, a feature commonly associated with pistols chambered in the high velocity 7.63mm cartridge.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition
The grips are two piece checkered walnut panels, relieved at the lower rear of the left panel for the lanyard ring. The grips show discoloration from age along with handling wear, scuffs, and draglines. The checkering is worn but remains generally well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall grip condition: Very Good to Very Good Plus.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
This pistol retains approximately 92 percent of its metal finish. There are handling and storage marks, scuffs, small nicks, and light draglines throughout. Standard operational wear is present. The screw heads are well defined and markings remain clear. Overall condition: Very Good to Very Good Plus.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Mostly bright with well defined rifling and scattered mild erosion. Rated 8 out of 10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The pistol features a manual safety, disconnect safety, and half cock hammer notch. The slide shows no play to the frame. This firearm has not been test fired. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning is recommended prior to use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Includes one 8 round magazine.
Our Assessment
The Star Model A pistols were introduced in the early 1920s as part of Spain’s growing role in global firearms production following World War I. Built in Eibar, a city known for its long tradition of gunmaking, these pistols combined elements of John Browning’s locked breech system with simplified construction suited for commercial export and broader production.
While most Model A pistols were chambered in 9mm Largo, this example is chambered in 7.63mm Mauser, a cartridge originally popularized by the Mauser C96. The longer 7 inch barrel seen here is less common and provides both a longer sight radius and improved ballistic performance, making it especially appealing to collectors interested in early semi automatic handgun development.
With solid overall condition, strong mechanics, and a good bore, this Star Model A represents a distinctive and historically interesting piece from the early evolution of European semi automatic pistols.
The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference
At Mt. McCoy Auctions, every firearm is carefully documented and professionally photographed to create a detailed archival record. Our descriptions are written to provide collectors and shooters with a clear understanding of condition, features, and historical context.
