Beginning mass production after the conclusion of World War II, the SKS rifle served the Soviet Military for only a brief time before it was promptly rendered obsolete as a frontline weapon by the iconic AK-47 machine gun. While not serving within the Soviet Union's military for long, the USSR shared the SKS rifle's design with its allies and satellite states, including East Germany, who utilized the SKS alongside STG-44, K98, and AK variants. This rifle is one of only approximately 35 East German SKS rifles that are known within the United States, and exhibits distinctive features including a K98 rifle inspired sling slot in the stock and the lack of a butt trap for cleaning utensils in the butt. Blue and in-the-white components retain a pleasant high polish finish, with the stock being comprised of blonde laminated wood. Blade type bayonet is present. Rear sight is marked "SV" at the battle position. The left side of the receiver bears multiple East German proofs, as a "60" prefix to the serial number, indicating manufacture in 1960. Matching numbers include the receiver, receiver cover, rear sight ladder, bolt carrier, bolt assembly, magazine cover, trigger guard, gas cylinder, piston, and laminated buttstock. The bolt assembly, gas cylinder, piston, and magazine cover are matched via electro-pencil. CONDITION: Metal components are excellent, retaining lustrous amounts of their original high polish blue finish, exhibiting some high edge wear, as well as a few minor marks and areas of wear from handling and disassembly. Buttplate shoes some edge wear that shows through to gray, as well as a minor area of oxidation. Bolt is in-the-white and exhibits some age related discoloration, but is otherwise fine. Exceptional bore, showing finely defined lands and grooves throughout. Laminated stock bears some scattered dings, impressions, and scattered handling marks from handling and storage, as well as some areas with loss to the varnish. The left side of the stock bears a gouge on the grasping groove. An exceptional example of a seldom encountered and sought after East German SKS rifle. -MLW- Barrel Length: 20" Caliber/Bore: 7.62x39mm FFL Status: Curio & Relic Manufacturer: East Germany Model: SKS Serial Number: 60U9115