Walther Model PPK, Political Party Leader Bakelite Grips, Blue Rare WWII .32 Auto Semi-Automatic Pistol, MFD 1939 C&R
SOLD FOR $5,930
LSB#: 160132WM62
Make: Walther
Model: PPK
Serial Number: 182968K
Year of Manufacture: 1939 (http://www.tague.at/pistolen/index.htm?/pistolen/pages/en_waltherppk.htm)
Caliber: .32 Auto (7.65 Browning)
Action Type: Single or Double Action Semi-Auto with 7 Round Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked with the Walther “Banner” logo, “Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thur) / Walther’s Patent Cal. 7,65m/m” , “MOD. PPK”. The barrel at the port and the right side of the slide below the port opening are marked with a “Crowned N” proof as used prior to 1940 (the slide’s crown is partially struck as photographed). The right side of the frame behind the trigger is marked “182968K”, the top of the frame, at the hammer cut is marked with a scripted “S”. There are no markings on the inside of the slide or on the top of the frame under the slide.
Barrel Length: 3 5/16”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a low profile blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a flat-topped “U” groove in the top rear of the slide. The top of the slide has a full-length rib, which is serrated in a wave-like pattern to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are “Party Leader” orange and black swirled Bakelite grips with a metal tab molded into the back strap portion, which wraps around the grip frame’s rear portion. The grips have eagles clutching wreathed swastikas with rich detail; the right side eagle is facing left, the left side eagle is facing left. The grips show some compression marks around the lower base, a few disturbed checkers and small cracks forming around the screw hole locations as photographed. The grips are short of the frame at the back strap and slide, which looked to be consistent on other examples in our research. The grips rate in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is highly defined. There are a couple spots of pin prick erosion in the bore towards the muzzle.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. The surfaces show a dusting of patina, with wear losses on the leading edges of the slide and frame; there are small examples of emerging frosting and handling marks found on the surfaces. The slide serrations have a bit of inconsistency in length; the right side of the frame’s serration cuts extend into the rounded portion of the slide, the right side’s stops right at the curve transition. The wave-like serrations on the slide have sharp detail but for some examples of light compression. The grip screw head is sharp. The markings are legible and clear, but for the lightly struck crown on the slide. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide is tight to the frame, the double and single action trigger pulls are smooth with a crisp break. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a 7-round Walther banner marked magazine with a black and orange Bakelite finger extension, which looks to be refinished; the Walther marking is a bit faded and there are horizontal marks under the finish. The magazine rates in about Very Good Plus condition as refinished.
Our Assessment: This pistol was manufactured in 1939 and falls within the serial number range (German Pistols and Holsters 1934 / 1945 Military – Police – NSDAP by Lt. Col. Robert D. Whittington III, Page 173 of PPK items awarded to political party leaders of the NSDAP. The Bakelite grips have the obligatory metal tab near the base and appear to be as real as it gets. These pistols were known as the “Ehrenwaffe des Politischen Leiters” (Honor weapon of the Political Leaders) and this one, with its proper markings, should fetch the attention of history buffs and collectors all the same. The magazine has signs of refinishing and sports a Bakelite finger extension. Please see our pictures.
