This is an extremely rare example of a second developmental stage Walther Model AP (Armee-Pistole) prototype pistol serial number "34" that includes its original matching factory magazine. This pistol is actually consecutively numbered to another AP model we have in this auction. This series of Walther pistols was actually manufactured in two serial number ranges, with the second group using the zero-prefix serial numbers. Obviously this pistol was manufactured in the second group. This was Walther's continuing attempt to develop a suitable semi-automatic pistol for military sales to the German Army. This example has the "concealed hammer" design; however, it does not have any provisions for a shoulder stock. As Walther continued to experiment with this design, there are some subtle changes, so no two are alike, and they are still considered early engineering design/development models with unique and innovative features such as the standard swinging locking block, twin recoil springs on the frame, standard 4 7/8 inch barrel, two separate takedown and slide release levers, with the takedown lever still having the larger checkered head. Most of these features were later incorporated into standard Walther HP and P38 production pistols. The slide still retains the unique single reinforcing rib on each side and the concealed internal hammer, characteristic of the earlier Mod AP pistols. It is estimated that these early prototypes were produced circa 1932-34 time frame with an estimate of approximately 75-100 produced and less than 20 known today. This example has an all steel frame with the longer rear area (below the slide serrations); however, as noted, it is not machined for a shoulder stock. The left side of the slide on the reinforcing rib is marked, "Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thur)" and below that it is marked, "Walther" inside a banner followed by "Armee-Pistole Cal. 9 m/m". The right side of the slide below the reinforcing rib is marked "Walther's Patent". The serial number "034" is located on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard bow, the right side of the barrel lug, the right side of the locking block, and the top, right side slide rail. Additionally, the underside rear cut out area of the slide is stamped "34". This example has the original Walther factory wraparound two-piece grips that have the full checkered panels on each side and a lanyard loop on the lower left side. The grips are numbered "34" on the back of each panel. As noted, this super rare pistol comes with its original matching magazine that is serial numbered "034-67" on the lower left hand side. There are two excellent reference books that provide historical/factual information on this model. The first is "Walther Vol. III, 1908-1980" by Rankin on pp. 72-73 and the second is "The P.38 Pistol" Vol I by Buxton, pp. 31-33 and pp. 48-67. This Walther Mod. AP is an extremely scarce and important pistol in the overall design and development of the Walther P.38.

Excellent with 99% of the blue finish with only minor edge and high spot wear. The walnut grips are also in excellent condition with nice distinct checkering with only minor handing marks. Mechanically excellent A rare (consecutively numbered to the following lot) Walther Model AP pistol.