April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/13/2023
Exceptionally attractive silver & gold plated P.38 manufactured by Walter and presented as a birthday gift to Luftwaffe Fighter Ace, Major Kurt Buhligen, who was credited with shooting down 112 enemy aircraft throughout his career, which spanned from the European theater to the Mediterranean theater. This example is stamped "P.38" followed by Walther's manufacturer code above the year of manufacture "ac/43" and the serial number on the left side of the slide, with the right side bearing an "(Eagle)/ 359" waffenamt on either side of an eagle firing proof. Major metal components exhibit a silver plated finish, with some smaller components including the takedown lever, trigger, slide stop, hammer, grip screw, extractor, safety lever, firing pin/indicator cover, rear sight, as well as the front sight exhibiting a gold plated finish. Frame is mounted with 2-piece grooved dark brown pressed resin grips. All numbers are matching and include the frame, slide, barrel, and locking block. This example is accompanied by a black leatherette Walther factory presentation case, adorned with a silver plaque on the lid that reads "MAJOR KURT BUHLIGEN/ 12-12-1943". Lid locks into place via 2 flip closure bars, which affix to silver studs on the case body. Interior of case features a light blue satin lining with a braided wrap around the perimeter of the interior, with the Walther banner logo present on the interior of the lid. Presentation case contains 1 additional magazine with a silver plated floorplate. CONDITION: Major metal components retain the vast majority of their silver plated finish, exhibiting darkening to exposed silver areas, with protected interior areas retaining bright and vibrant silver plating. Gold plated components retain large amounts of their finish, exhibiting areas of wear showing through to gray patina overall, with the front sight retaining trace amounts of its gold finish. Bore exhibits moderate surface level pitting, retaining strong rifling throughout. Grips show a few scattered marks from storage and handling, but are otherwise fine. Exterior of leatherette presentation case shows some marks and discoloration from handling and age, with an impression present on the top right of the lid. Interior of case shows average discoloration from age, with some fraying to the braided wrap at one end.
Accessories
Presentation case
Caliber/Bore
9x19mm Parabellum