This is a rare early "ac" Code No-Date P38 pistol that has had the date "40" added to the left side of the slide. This series of P38 pistol is actually a fairly rare early German Army contract pistol that was manufactured from October to early November 1940. The transition to the "40" date being added to the slide occurred only in November to early December 1940, with an estimated total of approximately 8,000. After that all P.38 pistols were manufactured with the manufacturer's code and date applied directly to the slide. The left side of the slide is marked "P.38 ac" and serial number, on line in the middle of the slide. The added "40" date was applied directly below the "ac" markings. The right side of the slide has the single "eagle" firing proof with the double "eagle/359" acceptance proofs. In addition to the "AC/40" code markings on the slide, it also has the small "ac" code marked on the left side of the trigger guard. The front of the barrel lug is marked with the full serial number and the left side has an "eagle/359" proof. Additional "eagle/359" proofs are stamped on the small parts, including on the side of the un-numbered factory ordnance replacement locking block. Fitted with ribbed grips that carry the correct manufacturers model markings, "eagle/359" proofs and the last three digits of the serial number on the back sides. With an all blue magazine marked "P38" on the left side and an "eagle/369" on the spine.

Very fine as partially professionally refinished (barrel) with the balance of the pistol retaining 97% original blue finish showing some scattered minor edge wear. The grips are excellent with a few barely noticeable handling marks. Mechanically excellent.