The subtle difference in these guns to the second variant seen above, is that the top of the receiver, as well as the curved rear portion of the receiver has a crackle black finish applied from the factory, as seen in the inset below. This is an interesting sub variant, of which to date, only four examples are known. The box dimensions have been altered to the size most commonly seen for the LP53. The Walther markings are now stamped into the side of the receiver. The smooth receiver, and high gloss finish on both the alloy parts and the blued steel parts remain. The second variant guns appear similar to the first variant guns, but a number of engineering changes have taken place. The three earliest guns known have machined markings, whereas, by S/N 002xxx, these markings are stamped. First variant guns have a number of differences over the later guns, but the most obvious is the markings on the side of the receiver. nothing was really known of the difference between these very early guns, and those that fall into the Variant #2 group. This particular group has only come to light within the past 18 or so months, because prior to any pictures of the very early serial numbered guns turning up. I have divided the known variants into five groups, and will describe the different features used to define each of these variant groups. I have been researching the Walther LP53 air pistol for a great many years, and have been attempting to sort out the known variants that have occurred over the course of production of this unique air pistol. Walther LP-53 - A brief overview of the variants. Contrast these dimensions to the box most commonly seen for these pistols, at 345 mm wide by 170 mm deep by 58 mm high, with the accessory shelf measuring 52 mm wide by 117 mm deep by 46 mm high. The accessory shelf for the sight inserts inside the box measures 38 mm wide by 115 mm deep by 34 mm high. The box measures 349 mm wide by 180 mm deep by only 47 mm high. This early Walther box is very different dimensionally from anything that I have seen to date.

This is the earliest known variant of the LP53 box. The original grips have been retained due to unique features they possess, not seen on later style grips. The damaged grips were replaced with a set of later grip panels that I had as spares to make the gun look more presentable. Sadly, the original cleaning rod was missing, and the original early grips were broken. It is in its original box, with all the sight inserts, the cocking knob, the factory test target, and the owners pamphlet (printed in German). A very early specimen of a Walther LP53 air pistol, bearing serial number 001345, in exceptionally well preserved condition.

Walther Model 53 Serial Numbers