WWII Era Walther P38 (P-38) AC 44 9mm Semi Automatic Pistol MFD 1944 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,142.00

LSB#: WY250312CM003

Make: Walther

Model: P38

Serial Number: 6123H

Year of Manufacture: 1944 (C&R)

Caliber: 9mm Luger (9x19mm)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Double Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “P.38 AC 44 / 6123H” The right side of the slide is marked with a “359” and a “356” Waffenament as well as an angry chicken holding a spooky pinwheel. The front of the barrel is marked “6123H” The left side of the frame is marked “6123H” as well as a “359” Waffenament.

Barrel Length: 4.9”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fixed U-notch integral to the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 2 serrated panels. There are light scratches and compression marks present. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Very Good condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 8-round P38 magazine in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. There is some stubborn fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 95% of its original metal finish. There are light scratches present. There is some finish loss on the leading edges. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. This pistol rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide reciprocates smoothly, the decocker operates as intended, and the trigger breaks cleanly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one 8-round magazine.

Our Assessment: The Walther P38 was a revolutionary design that replaced the expensive and time-consuming to manufacture Luger P08 as Germany’s standard sidearm during World War II. The P38 introduced a double-action/single-action trigger mechanism and a de-cocking safety, features that are still in use on many modern pistols today.

This particular P38 was manufactured in 1944 at the Walther factory, as indicated by the “ac 44” marking. It retains a good amount of its original wartime finish, with well-preserved markings and an excellent bore. These pistols were produced under increasing war constraints, leading to some variations in fit and finish, making them fascinating collector’s pieces.

For collectors of WWII firearms or those interested in historical military sidearms, this P38 is a great addition. It remains mechanically sound and would be a prized possession for any collector of wartime-era pistols. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.