This is the ultimate find for the advanced Walther collector. This is an example of a extremely rare and elusive pre-war double action Walther model HP pistol that was manufactured in the very rare 7.65mm Luger Auto caliber. These early commercial pistols were a continuation of the original pre-war HP pistols intended specifically for commercial sale in Europe and the US as a special order piece. This excellent example is referenced as a third developmental stage model in that it was made as a double action pistol in the 7.65mm caliber. These were produced on a very random basis in the serial number range of 2996-3085 for this specific model with an estimated total production of only 145 total pistols manufactured with only "12" examples know to existing today. This pistol as noted is serial number "3088" and is the highest recorded serial number for this model, as listed on page 118-119 of volume one of the book, "The P38 PISTOL", by Buxton. Obviously with such a limited number still know today this has to be one of the rarest of the early HP Walther P38s. All these early pistols exhibited the Walther high polish blue finish that has the unique large headed unlocking pin on the locking block. The left side of the slide is marked with the Walther Banner next to the two line Walther factory address, followed by the caliber designation "7,65m/m" and "Mod HP". The frame is marked with only the serial number (3088) on the right side with the matching serial number located on the inside upper left rear rail of the slide, the front lug of the barrel and the locking block is numbered "088". The right side of the slide, barrel and locking block also have the early Nazi "Eagle/N" commercial proof and the right side of the locking block is proofed with a circled "B"/45. next to the "Eagle/N" proof. Fitted with a set of the early black checkered HP style grips with the back sides both marked with the four circular mold marks and "Cewe/480/V7 over the maker's mark, over Z3/1". This pistol is complete with one original matching blue magazine that is marked, on the left side with "P.38" and the matching serial number "3088" etched/electro pencil on the spine, which is correct for this pistol.

Excellent plus with 98% of the bright original high polish blue finish overall, with wear on the edges and high spots, and a hint of thinning on the front grip strap and the right side of the slide. The grips are also excellent with nice checkering on both sides, showing only minor handling marks overall. This is an exceptional example of an extremely rare early pre-war Walther HP pistol that is a critical piece in any high end advanced collection.