Fabrica De Armas Oviedo 1900

Question
I have a family heirloom from my former father-in-law who served in Germany in WWII. It was given to my husband, who has passed away and I would like to give it to my son and tell him something about it. Also, I would like to know if there is any value to the gun and if I should have it insured. I understand it was made in Spain..is that correct? And does the 1900 indicate the year of manufacture? Was it used by the Americans or the Germans?

Answer
Hello Peggy. The first Model 1893 Mauser was manufactured in Berlin by Ludwig Loewe & Co. up to 1896, but when the Spanish-American War broke out in 1898, these Model 1893 rifles were already being manufactured in Oviedo, Spain. It was at the Battle of San Juan and Kettle Hills in Cuba that proved the value of this rifle. There were 800 Cuban Infantry equipt with the 1893 Oviedo manufactured 7x57mm Mausers,who held these Hills for several days against over 19,000 American and Loyalist troops. It was the rifle that made the difference. Your rifle, however, was manufactured in 1900, thus putting it after this battle. Your rifle may have been used by Boers in the British/Boer War in Africa. As history proves, the Model 1893 Fabrica De Armas Oviedo was not used as a military issue weapon by either the American or German forces.
I do not appraise firearms for insurance purposes, but you can check some web sites on mauser rifles and get a close figure. I hope this helps answer your questions and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage