This is a rare example of one of the First Model Nazi Military Zero Series P38 pistols, with two matching numbered magazines. This pistol is one of approximately 965 (based on known serial numbers) First Issue pistols with the concealed extractor, rectangular non retractable firing pin, flat faced hammer with the smooth sides, and commercial high polish blue finish. This rare variation also includes the early/experimental reinforcing plate on the back side of the stamped trigger, as briefly discussed on pg. 167, volume one of the book "The P.38 Pistol" by Buxton. He notes in there that serial number "0540" there were two small rectangular cuts on the back side of the trigger, with no known explanation. The explanation is that those cuts are part of an early attempt to reinforce the stress point of the stamped trigger. This example still retains the small stamped trigger insert, that fits into those rectangular cutouts to reinforce the back/sides of the trigger. Obviously this was an early stamped manufacturing shortcut that was later dropped from production as all later wartime and commercial P.38s do not have this small stamped reinforcing feature. These were the first true German military contract P38 pistols ever manufactured and are a must collection pistol for any high end German military/P.38 collection. The left side of the slide is marked with the Walther banner followed by "P.38" and the serial number "0503". The matching serial number is also located on the front of the barrel lug and the left side of the frame above the trigger guard. The right side of the slide is marked with a single Eagle firing proof, flanked by two "Eagle/359" Waffenamt proofs. The "Eagle/359" proof is also marked on the left side of the frame, takedown lever, slide stop lever, hammer, trigger and the right side of the barrel lug. The locking block is numbered "503" and has the "Eagle/359" proof on the right side and the Eagle firing proof on the left. The left side of the barrel lug is marked with the bore dimension "8,83". This excellent rare pistol is fitted with two matching early zero series blue magazines. The magazines are numbered on the side "0503" and "0503+" and each one has a dull blue sides with the high polished floor plate. The spine of each magazine has a "Eagle/359" acceptance proof. The pistol is fitted with the correct matching early zero series black plastic grips with checkered sides and the hollowed out back sides. Each grip panel has a "Eagle/359" waffenamt proof and serial number "503". It is complete with a early all black leather holster that is marked on the back side "070836/0029/Eagle WaAXXX/P.38".

Very fine with 80% plus of the original blue finish overall. Edge and high spot wear overall with finish loss on the muzzle area, front edges of the slide and front grip strap. The grips are very fine with nice checkering and markings on both sides, with only light wear and handling marks. The holster is excellent with nice black color overall, tight stitching and visible markings. As noted this rare early Zero Series P.38 pistol has all matching numbers and includes both magazines.