German, WW2-c.May 1944, Walther P38 Semi-Automatic Pistol, AC44, Matching Nos 202e, WaA359, EU/UK Deactivated

*German, WW2-c.May 1944, Walther P38 Semi-Automatic Pistol, AC44, Matching Nos 202e, WaA359, EU/UK Deactivated*

An original Second World War German Walther P38 semi-automatic service pistol manufactured by Carl Walther Waffenfabrik, Zella-Mehlis, and dated 1944 with the wartime manufacturer code “ac44” stamped to the left side of the slide. The pistol bears matching serial number “202 e” to both slide and frame, together with multiple Waffenamt WaA359 military acceptance stamps and the correct wartime German eagle firing proof.

This example falls within approximately May 1944 production and retains the characteristic wartime Walther machining and finish associated with mid-war manufacture prior to the extreme simplifications encountered on late-war examples. The left side of the slide is correctly marked “P.38” followed by the serial number and “ac44” factory code, while the frame retains matching serial markings together with crisp WaA359 inspection stamps. Internal components and the locking block additionally display correct wartime inspection and acceptance marks visible beneath the slide assembly.

The right side of the slide retains the desirable and complete wartime acceptance sequence consisting of a central German eagle firing proof flanked by two sharp WaA359 Waffenamt military inspection stamps. These markings remain particularly clear and well defined, adding significantly to the pistol’s collector appeal.

The pistol retains its original black ribbed Bakelite grip panels together with the correct wartime lanyard loop assembly to the heel. Included is a wartime P38 magazine marked “P.38v” together with a Walther WaA359 Waffenamt acceptance stamp, making it an excellent matching-period accompaniment to the pistol.

Approx. Measurements – Overall length: approx. 21.5 cm (8.5 inches). Barrel length: approx. 12.5 cm (5 inches).

History Note:
The Walther P38 was adopted by the German Wehrmacht as the replacement for the more expensive and mechanically complex Luger P08 and became the standard German military sidearm during the Second World War. The design introduced several advanced features for the era, including a double-action trigger system and locking block action, both of which heavily influenced post-war military pistol development worldwide. Walther-produced “ac” coded P38 pistols are generally regarded as among the finest wartime variants due to their comparatively high machining quality and finish standards.

*Condition*
Presented in very good original wartime condition overall with an even dark military finish showing honest service wear, handling marks, and areas of edge thinning consistent with age and use. Markings remain exceptionally clear and legible throughout. This includes the complete, correct three-stamp wartime sequence on the right side of the slide, consisting of a central German eagle military firing proof cleanly flanked by two sharp WaA359 Waffenamt military acceptance stamps. The “ac44” factory code, serial numbers, and additional inspection markings also remain well defined throughout the pistol. The original black Bakelite grips remain intact with light handling wear only. The accompanying magazine retains matching wartime finish together with correct P38v and WaA359 markings. Internal deactivation cuts and welded blocking are visible in accordance with current specification standards. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

Deactivation Certificate Details:
Deactivated to current EU/UK specification standards with accompanying Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House certificate. Certificate number 188469 dated 15/05/2025. Recorded as a Walther semi-automatic pistol in 9mm calibre with serial number 202E and barrel length listed on the certificate as 3.50 inches, although the pistol retains the standard full-length military P38 barrel configuration measuring approximately 5 inches overall. The slide moves fully rearward and can be held open, however in accordance with current EU/UK specification standards the pistol does not cock or dry fire, although the trigger moves freely. Birmingham Proof House EU/GB deactivation markings are present to the frame.

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