Walther LP53

[Leslie A Hesket]

A close neighbour has disclosed to me, that he has a Lp53 pistol, I replied that I collect air pistols, so I went along to have a look.
After close inspection, it was in lovely condition, smooth finish and everything in order, just a little wear by the duckbill
I noticed the serial number was 0011##
My question is this, did these pistols start with serial numbers 001### or 0001##
Indeed if they started at 001### this would be a very early pistol.
The pistol is cased with blue velvet/satin interior with spare sights, wooden
cocking and colour insert sheet.
The gentleman was in the forces in Germany in the 50's, so I think it ties up.
Advise please,
Les.

[ogilkes]

John Griffiths says that serial numbers began with 001000 or 001001. The numbers on your lucky friends pistol do not correspond with these, perhaps there is another sequence, or a couple of numbers are faint?

[Leslie A Hesket]

What ?

[TStray]

The earliest version of the LP53 would have a smooth blued receiver and duckbill rear. Second version had a crinkled finish and duckbill where the later version would have the crinkled finish and a straight back.

Sounds like you have a very early deluxe cased version in your hands, an email to Walther with model and serial number would give you a date in their return email. I believe the later deluxe cased models had a maroon satin interior.

"Love them Walthers"

Tom

[Leslie A Hesket]

Hi Tom,

Thanks for reply, however at the moment he's just not budging to sell it,
maybe I'll try to find out what he is interested in and then hopefully trade.
I don't think he's interested in the money angle.
Looking at all the imfo received, it lookes like the pistol is in the first
200 pistols produced.

Regards,
Les.

[chip]

you lucky, lucky, ##########.
I have two of these pistols, and paid through the nose for both of them.
This one sounds like a real find.
Good luck with your acquisition

[chip]

I cant believe bar-steward is in the filter