May 18, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/18/2022
Beginning research and early development in 1932, Walther patented its early concealed hammerless Model MP and AP designs in 1936 in hopes of securing a new German military contract. These prototypes are exceptionally scarce, with this example not appearing in any reference book that this cataloger has reviewed. This example exhibits key design elements from several of Walther's former designs and shows several features that were subsequently reused and/or modified in some capacity for the AP, HP, and P.38 pistols. This specimen is stamped with the Walther banner logo followed by "Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thur)/ Walther's Patent Cal 9m/m" followed by "Mod. M P" on the left side of the slide, with the only other stamping present being its serial number "105" on the right side of the frame. The serial number "105" indicates that this specific example was the fifth variation of this pattern, and due to its 3-digit length, was intended for internal use. The majority of metal components are in-the-white, with some smaller components such as the front and rear sights, as well as the heel magazine release being blued, likely indicating that these pieces were utilized from earlier produced pistols. Features include a frame-mounted integral barrel with lightening cuts (reminiscent of the later AP and P.38 barrels), dovetailed inverted-V front sight, U-notch rear sight, PP/PPK pattern trigger guard (that functions identically for disassembly of the pistol), slide serrations with left side mounted safety lever, checkered slide stop lever, as well as smooth 2-piece walnut grips. CONDITION: Metal components exhibit age-related discoloration overall, with some areas of surface oxidation present on the frame and slide. Frame and slide bear some dings, scratches, and handling marks overall, which is to be expected from an unhardened prototype of this kind. Mirror bore, exhibiting some areas of light inactive oxidation as well as well-defined rifling throughout. Grips show some scattered handling marks and dings but are otherwise fine. This is a seldom encountered opportunity for one to acquire a Walther Model MP prototype pistol that exhibits some of the key design elements that were subsequently implemented in the final iteration of the iconic P.38 pistol, and is befitting of the most advanced collection. MLW