How much is a zeiss zielvier scope as fitted to ww2 Mauser rifle worth?

Answer 1

Depends on whether the scope (optical sight) was an original Wermacht fit with mount and accessories to the rifle. If that's the case, all the parts will have matching serial numbers. Mounts were machined to match only one rifle, not intended to be separated or interchanged with others, and matched S/N. Scopes were provided with leather lens caps, carry case, and other items.

Additionally, if scope was made at the same time period of the rifle, it will be a more desirable matched set. As in most collectibles, condition is the next best determinant of value.

If the scope is from an earlier period but with matched numbers, that will be of value.

From the 1920s to the start of Third Reich militarism, Zielvier optics were manufactured primarily as sporting use optics. Many of these were exported and/or mounted to sporting Mausers with a variety of mounts. When wartime exigencies resulted in a demand by the Wermacht, the excess supply of sporting scopes were retrofitted as upgrades to Sniper kits on Mausers. These match-ups were distinct from the later matched sets and are of somewhat lesser value all other things being equal.

Original finish, undamaged, with 90% bluing, pristine glass scope only without any mounts: $500-$600

Same as above with matched serial number mounts: $500-$900

Same as above with matched s/n mounts on matched rifle: $3000-5000 for pkg.

Condition scales downward for damage to finish, fittings, glass, internals.

Accessories add value.