Prototype Walther MP hammerless semi-automatic pistol—in .45ACP! - Handguns Of Note

American Handgunner, Nov-Dec, 2003

This rare and important wonder-of-wonders to any Walther collector is a circa-1935-36 hammerles Walther MP in .45 ACP! Recently sold at auction by Gret Martin Auctions, bidding was furious, with the gun eventually selling for a heart-stopping $120,000! Serial no. 1005, it has a 4 7/8" barrel, with an overall length of approximately 8 1/2". The rear sight is a notched blade fitted into a dovetail, while the front sight is a steel blade, also dovetailed into an integral base with a corresponding barrel band encircling the muzzle. A high gloss blued finish and checkered select walnut grips with a wrap-around feature at the backstrap, round-out this highly unusual, very desirable auto.

The Walther was accompanied by extensive correspondence and literature, including an illustrated 15-page article "Die Walther Armee-Pistolen," by Karl Schafer; two specimens of Sidney Aberman letterhead included--on which this pistol, or one exactly like it--serves as illustration at the top of first page. Aberman was an important pioneer automatic dealer and collector. The .45 Walther in his collection was regarded by Aberman as his favorite piece.

For more information and to learn about more historic an important firearms and notable collectibles go to www.gmartin-auctions.com