GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
EXTREMELY RARE THIRD VARIATION ZERO-SERIES P-38 WITH BOX. WALTHER P38 02558 9MM MODERN; C&R Cal. 9mm. Extremely rare early zero-series P-38 as seen in figure 4-4, p. 217 of Buxton's book "The P.38 Pistol". This is one of only just over 2500 pistols produced between January and April 1940. It has notable features such as rectangular firing pin head, thin rear sight, thick safety lever, a checkered takedown lever, and a thicker slide (top to bottom). This is the last variation of the pistols that fall within the experimental range, and it retains the correct scalloped grip for lanyard loop. Many of this variation pistol went to line troops in Eastern Europe and in Scandinavian countries, and saw hard use with a low survival rate. Mag is only 4 digits off (SN 02554). Walther proof marks on right side of slide and left side of frame with Walther banner. SNs match between bbl, slide, frame, hammer, and bbl lock. Orig covered box with orig oil bottle in Walther tin box and cleaning rod. PROVENANCE: The Esteemed Collection Of Noted Expert And Author Warren Buxton. CONDITION: Extremely fine, with high gloss blue finish turning to a bare metal at the forward edge of slide with some evidence of old clean pitting and loss of finish to high edges. Overall finish is about 85% thinning at high edges to grey metal. Bore is shiny and bright with some light frosting. Grips are in very fine condition. Correct orig commercial box is misnumbered with pencil "93" on cover but it is an orig box for this gun. Very few of this rare variation survive and to find one in this level of condition is remarkable. 51569-375 JWK121 (2,000-3,500)