Lot #756
Lot #758

Lot 757: Walther PP Pistol 7.65 mm auto

Exquisite Presentation Grade Factory Engraved Nazi Walther Model PP Pistol with "KB" Initials on the Backstrap In Postwar Walther Factory Presentation Case

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 12, 2014

Lot 757: Walther PP Pistol 7.65 mm auto

Exquisite Presentation Grade Factory Engraved Nazi Walther Model PP Pistol with "KB" Initials on the Backstrap In Postwar Walther Factory Presentation Case

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 12, 2014

Estimated Price: $12,000 - $18,000

Exquisite Presentation Grade Factory Engraved Nazi Walther Model PP Pistol with "KB" Initials on the Backstrap In Postwar Walther Factory Presentation Case

Manufacturer: Walther
Model: PP
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 7.65 mm auto
Barrel: 3 3/4 inch round
Finish: blue
Grip: black checkered plastic
Stock:
Item Views: 6373
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 153
Class: Curio & Relic Handgun
Description:

This is a beautiful example of an all original Presentation Grade, Factory Engraved Nazi Walther Model PP pistol that is also engraved with the large intertwined initials "KB" on the back strap. The large engraved initials on the back; "KB" are believed, though not proven, to be that of Kurt Buhligen. Major Buhligen was a top Luftwaffe fighter ace during WWII credited with 112 kills who eventually commanded Jagdgeschwader Nr 2, "Freiherr von Richthofen" squadron. Major Buhligen joined the Luftwaffe upon it initial conception in the early 1930s, attended flight and fighter school from 1938-1939 and made his first kill in Sept 1940 during the Battle of Britain. He served on all fronts and flew over 700 missions. In 1944 while on a flying mission in Russia he developed engine trouble and was forced to land and was captured by the Russians. He was interned until 1950 when he was repatriated. During the war for his numerous air victories he was awarded the "Knights Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords" the second highest medal that could be awarded to any German serviceman. The Walther factory has always been known for having some of the best engravers in Europe, and this pistol is no exception. The layout and attention to detail is just exceptional and it features a traditional deep relief, German "Oak Leaf and Acorn" style engraving with a stippled background that covers virtually all the exposed metal surfaces, intermixed with a little geometric pattern highlights in some areas. The engraving cover all surfaces to include the front and back end of the slide and complete trigger guard bow. The pistol itself is a late pattern with the 60 degree safety, ring hammer, loaded chamber indicator and no lanyard loop. The slide has the standard Walther Banner, followed by "Waffenfabrik Walther, Zella-Mehlis (Thur)/Walther's Patent Cal 7.65mm" followed by "MOD.PP", which have all been framed or outlined in an engraved panel with the oak leaf and acorn engraving going right up to the edge of the panels. The right side of the frame and slide have the "Eagle/N" Nazi commercial proof marks located on the right side of the barrel and directly below that on the slide below the ejection port. The serial number is marked vertically on the right side of the frame (139762P). The entire pistol has been given a deep Walther blued finish and it is fitted with a set of checkered, black plastic Walther marked grips. The pistol is complete with a postwar Walther presentation case that has a blue leather exterior with a red velvet/satin interior lining. It comes with one spare Walther marked PP magazine with the black finger extension base.

Rating Definition:

Excellent with 97% plus of the original blue finish overall with a hint of edge and high spot wear on the front end of the slide. The factory engraving and initials are clear sharp and deep with a beautiful layout and attention to detail. Both the Walther case and spare magazine are in excellent condition. A beautiful engraved Walther pistol that needs further historical research to document the exact owner.



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