Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this semi-automatic pistol today for a penny-start auction, this is the Ernst Thälmann State Factory / Century Arms Model PM.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Ernst Thälmann State Factory / Century Arms
Model: PM
Serial: BS4364
Date of Manufacture: 1962
Caliber: 9x18mm (9mm Makarov)
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 3.6"
Optics/Sights: Blade Front with Dovetail Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Black Polymer Grip with Aggressive Texturing
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Ernst Thälmann Makarov PM, manufactured under license at the VEB Ernst Thälmann Waffenfabrik in Suhl, East Germany, saw initial setup starting in 1958, with full military production running until about 1965, and it is widely regarded as one of the finest Makarov variants ever made. Early production briefly experimented with die-cast components, but the factory quickly shifted entirely to fully machined, forged steel parts to ensure absolute structural durability. Distinguished by its high-quality, deep mirror-blue finish, chrome-lined barrel, and one-piece black plastic grips, the Suhl Makarov also features a unique slide serration pattern—10 cuts on the left side and 17 on the right—setting it apart from Soviet and Bulgarian models. It adheres to the classic PM design as a blowback-operated, all-steel pistol featuring a fixed barrel, double-action/single-action trigger, slide-mounted safety/decocker, a heel-magazine release, and fixed sights. Issued to East German military, police, and security forces until German reunification in 1990, these pistols were later imported into the U.S. as military surplus and are now highly prized by collectors for their relative rarity, superior craftsmanship, and Cold War heritage. Ultimately, its mechanical simplicity, robust construction, and refined aesthetics make the Ernst Thälmann PM a definitive standout among Cold War-era sidearms.
Contents:
Model: PM
Serial: BS4364
Date of Manufacture: 1962
Caliber: 9x18mm (9mm Makarov)
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 3.6"
Optics/Sights: Blade Front with Dovetail Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Black Polymer Grip with Aggressive Texturing
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Ernst Thälmann Makarov PM, manufactured under license at the VEB Ernst Thälmann Waffenfabrik in Suhl, East Germany, saw initial setup starting in 1958, with full military production running until about 1965, and it is widely regarded as one of the finest Makarov variants ever made. Early production briefly experimented with die-cast components, but the factory quickly shifted entirely to fully machined, forged steel parts to ensure absolute structural durability. Distinguished by its high-quality, deep mirror-blue finish, chrome-lined barrel, and one-piece black plastic grips, the Suhl Makarov also features a unique slide serration pattern—10 cuts on the left side and 17 on the right—setting it apart from Soviet and Bulgarian models. It adheres to the classic PM design as a blowback-operated, all-steel pistol featuring a fixed barrel, double-action/single-action trigger, slide-mounted safety/decocker, a heel-magazine release, and fixed sights. Issued to East German military, police, and security forces until German reunification in 1990, these pistols were later imported into the U.S. as military surplus and are now highly prized by collectors for their relative rarity, superior craftsmanship, and Cold War heritage. Ultimately, its mechanical simplicity, robust construction, and refined aesthetics make the Ernst Thälmann PM a definitive standout among Cold War-era sidearms.
Contents:
This example will ship with the matching labeled box, three 8-round magazines, and all the other contents pictured above.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3-day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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Additional Information
GunbrokerLink: |
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1189114949 |
BidPrice: |
115 |
AuctionEndDate: |
2026-07-26 21:00:00 |
CurrentBid: |
555 |





