nickel plated P38

Question
I have a relative that has a nickel plated p38 with markings that indicate it is a mauser. apparently the gun was aquired during one of the raids on the factory during the war, and this was taken from a showcase which made this gun appear like a one of a kind piece.  how can I tell if this is original?

Answer
Hello Mike. The nickel plating is not that unusual for a P38 and since it was manufactured in Germany, it would make reference to Mauser. But this is hardly enough for research. I need a serial number and any other numbers, names, stampings. These will be on different parts of the gun. The stampings will be on the barrel, bolt, magazine, under the grips(Be very careful when you remove the grips off). There will be single letters and numbers anywhere and everywhere. I suggest using a magnifying glass. Some of these alpha-numeral and stampings are very small. I need these to substantiate the claims of your gun. Send these to me and we can go from there.Thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage