This is a fantastic example of an original WWII Walther factory engraved, "Heinrich Himmler" Presentation PPK pistol, as shown on pages, 168-169 of the book: Walther Volume III, by Rankin. This rare and historic Walther PPK is actually one of two such pistols known manufactured in 1944, under the direct order from Heinrich Himmler himself. The other pistol, serial number 430359K, is shown in "Walther Volume II, Presentation and Engraved Models" by Rankin, on pages 39, 40, and 53 and matches this pistol exactly except that it has white grips. This exceptional and very rare pistol is fully factory engraved in a deep chiseled relief, traditional oak leaf and acorn pattern that covers over 98% of the metal surfaces. This specific example is factory engraved on the upper left side of the slide "Dem Tapferen! Vom Reichsfuhrer -SS H. Himmler 1944", which loosely translates to "to the brave! (or courageous) from the Reichsfuhrer -SS/1944 Heinrich Himmler". These are the only two known factory engraved Walther pistols that have a facsimile of "Heinrich Himmler's" signature on them. Both show extensive and deluxe engraving that also includes cross-hatched type engraving over the chamber area of the barrel and the absence of the full Walther factory slide legend. These two features are only found on the most special deluxe Walther engraved pistols. The center section of the left side of the slide is engraved with the Walther banner which is the only factory marking on the slide with no other markings other than the special presentation inscription. These pistols were obviously intended to be expressly given or presented by Heinrich Himmler himself to Senior SS or Nazi party members for meritorious service or for significant act(s) of valor by SS or German soldiers. However with the Allied invasion of Europe and the ultimate demise of Germany this never happened. Both of these rare Walther pistols remained in the original, unfinished factory "in the white" condition until April 1945, when the special engraved slides and frames were found in the Walther factory and the pistols were then assembled by American armorers. This pistol was assembled with available parts found at the Walther factory, that included a blue rear sight and a standard engraved safety lever and trigger guard. The safety is the later correct 60 degree style. The pistol is fitted with black checkered plastic grips and magazine base. The slide has the loaded chamber indicator and lanyard loop on the butt of the pistol. This rare pistol has no factory proofmarks as it was never issued or proofed fired. A fabulous example of an Walther factory engraved Heinrich Himmler SS presentation PPK pistol. Note: This is the first time ever that either of the two documented Himmler Presentation PPK Pistols have been offered for sale in a public auction.

Excellent in the original factory, "in the white" metal finish with clear sharp deep chiseled engraving and presentation inscription on the slide. The condition is identical to that shown in the photos from the reference 1981 publication. The grips are very fine with nice original checkering on both sides, with stress cracks around the grip screw area and in a small area on the rear border of the right grip. Just a super rare and highly desirable factory engraved "Heinrich Himmler" presentation Walther PPK pistol.