^Lot 1478 SCARCE GERMAN WWII WALTHER MODEL PP 9MM KURZ

SEMI-AUTOMATIC PISTOL WITH HEEL MAGAZINE RELEASE. Cal. 9mm Kurz (.380 ACP). S# 202431P. Bbl. 3 13/16". 1 of only approx. 1,500 9mm Kurz Model PP semi-automatic pistols mfg. by Walther for the German Army during World War II. According to "Walther Vol. III 1908-1980" by James L. Rankin these pistols were all serialized within a 5,000 S# block, with "Axis Pistols" by Jan C. Still estimating that approx. 1,500 were produced for the German Army from 1940-1945. The left side of the slide is marked with the Walther banner logo, followed by "Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thur.)/ Walther's Patent Cal 9 m/m", as well as "Mod. PP" above an Eagle/WaA359 proof, which is repeated on the left side of the frame. Right side of the frame (on chamber), slide, and bbl. exhibit an Eagle/N commercial nitro proof. Metal components exhibit a blue finish overall, save for on the chamber area of the frame, which is polished in-the-white. Frame is mounted with 2-piece Walther banner checkered black synthetic grips, and features a heel mag. release. Slide features a grooved matte rib, with an integral blade front sight and dovetailed U-notch rear sight. Slide matches the frame via "431", which is etched on the interior, parallel to the ejection port. MAGS: 1 7-rd. marked with the Walther banner logo above "Cal. 9 m/m" on the left side. CONDITION: metal components retain large amounts of their original factory finish, exhibiting areas of wear and thinning overall that show through to gray patina, with some scattered spots of light surface oxidation and pitting. Bore exhibits consistent mild pitting, while retaining strong rifling throughout. Proper manual mechanics, including the safety / decocking lever. Grips show mild smoothing and scattered superficial marks from handling and storage, but otherwise remain sturdy and serviceable. A scarce example of a German WWII issued Walther PP chambered in 9mm Kurz. (25-4253/MLW). CURIO. $1,000-1,500.