This is an extremely scarce example of a second developmental stage Walther Model AP (Armee-Pistole) prototype pistol that includes its original matching factory magazine. This is another outstanding example of a superb collection of early Walther prototype pistols we have to offer in this auction. This series was actually manufactured in two serial number ranges. The first group was a continuation of the early Walther Model MPs in the 1000 serial number range and this second group used the zero-prefix serial numbers with this specific pistol being serial number "044". This was Walther's continuing attempts at developing a suitable semi-automatic pistol for military sales for the German Army. This example like the early series exhibited the "concealed hammer" design, however it was not designed for a shoulder stock of any type. There were no two alike as Walther continued to experiment to determine which was the best design for the German military. They are still considered an early engineering design/development model, that incorporated several unique and innovative features such as the standard swinging locking block, twin recoil springs on the frame, standard 4 7/8 inch barrel, with the two separate takedown and slide release levers, with the takedown lever still having the larger checkered head. Most of these features were later incorporated into standard Walther HP and P38 production pistols. The slide still retains the unique single reinforcing rib on each side and the concealed internal hammer, characteristic of the earlier "Mod AP" pistols. It is estimated that these early prototypes were produced circa 1932-34 time frame with an estimate of approximately 75-100 produced with less than 20 known today. This example has an all steel frame with the longer rear frame area (below the slide serrations), however as noted it is not machined for a shoulder stock. The left side of the slide on the reinforcing rib is marked, "Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thur)" and below that it is marked, "Walther" inside a Banner followed by "Armee-Pistole Cal. 9 m/m". The right side of the slide below the reinforcing rib is marked "Walther's Patent". The serial number, "044" is located on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard bow, the right side of the barrel lug, the right side of the locking block, and the top, right side slide rail. Additionally the underside rear cut out area of the slide it is stamped "44". This example has the original Walther factory wraparound two-piece grips that have the full checkered panels on each side with a lanyard loop on the lower left side. It is fitted with a set of checkered walnut grips with the full length checkering on each side that are also marked "39." on the back of each grip. There is limited original factory information on this specific design for obvious reasons; however, there are two excellent reference books that provide historical, factual information on this model. The first is "Walther Vol. III, 1908-1980", by Rankin on pp. 72-73 and the second is "The P38 Pistol" by Buxton, Vol I, pp. 31-33, and pp. 48-67. This Walther Mod. AP is an extremely scarce and important pistol in the overall design and development of the Walther P.38.

Excellent with 98% plus of its original blue finish overall with only very minor edge wear. The markings are clear and distinct and the checkered walnut grips are also in excellent condition. Mechanically excellent. As noted this pistol has all matching serial numbers except the grips which were possibly switched during testing.