German, WW2-c.Jan 1943, Walther P38 Semi-Automatic Pistol, AC43, WaA359, Matching Nos. 827, Pre-EU Spec Deactivated

*German, WW2-c.Jan 1943, Walther P38 Semi-Automatic Pistol, AC43, WaA359, Matching Nos. 827, Pre-EU Specification Deactivated*

Markings: Slide marked “P.38 ac 43.” Matching serial number “827” visible to the major components. Waffenamt acceptance stamps “WaA359.” Magazine marked “P.38v.”

An original Second World War German Walther P38 semi-automatic service pistol, manufactured by Carl Walther Waffenfabrik, Zella-Mehlis, and dated 1943 with the wartime manufacturer code “ac43” stamped to the slide.

This desirable early production example bears the low no-suffix serial number “827,” identifying it as a first-block 1943 pistol generally accepted as dating to January 1943 manufacture. Matching serial number “827” markings remain visible to the slide, frame, and barrel assembly, together with multiple crisp Waffenamt WaA359 military acceptance stamps and correct Walther inspection markings throughout.

The pistol retains its original wartime configuration including the exposed hammer, double-action trigger system, open-top slide, military blued finish, and reddish-brown ribbed Bakelite grip panels. The grips display attractive marbled wartime colouring and remain structurally sound with honest service wear throughout. Included is a detachable wartime magazine marked with the authentic wartime block suffix “P.38v,” appearing entirely period correct to the pistol and retaining matching wartime finish and construction characteristics.

Early matching Walther-produced P38 examples with strong original markings and full moving functionality are increasingly sought after by collectors of German WWII militaria and deactivated firearms.

Approx. Measurements: Barrel Length – approx. 12.5 cm

History Note:
The Walther P38 entered German military service in 1938 as the Wehrmacht’s intended replacement for the Luger P08. It introduced several advanced features for the period, including a double-action/single-action trigger system and simplified locking mechanism designed to improve reliability and ease wartime production.

Wartime manufacture was divided between Walther (“ac”), Mauser (“byf”), and Spreewerk (“cyq”) factories, with Walther examples generally regarded among the finest finished wartime variants. Early 1943 production pistols are particularly desirable as they retain comparatively strong machining and finish quality prior to the heavier production simplifications introduced later in the war.

*Condition*
Presented in very good original collector condition overall with honest wartime and age-related wear throughout. The pistol retains much of its original blued finish with expected edge wear, handling marks, light oxidation spotting, and natural thinning consistent with wartime service and storage. The metalwork remains sharp with crisp machining edges and clear, legible markings throughout. Matching serial number “827” remains visible to the major components noted above, together with clear WaA359 Waffenamt inspection stamps and additional internal Walther inspection markings. The reddish-brown Bakelite grips remain secure and free from major damage, displaying attractive marbled colouring and honest handling wear. The detachable magazine shows age-related wear and oxidation consistent with period use and retains its wartime “P.38v” suffix marking.

Deactivation Certificate Details:
Pre-EU specification deactivated example retaining full moving slide action; the pistol cocks, locks rearward, and dry-fires correctly. Accompanied by its Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House deactivation certificate dated 14/11/2011, certificate number 102134. Recorded as a Walther semi-automatic pistol in 9mm calibre bearing serial number 827. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

JAQ#HCE_010720263282