This is a very fine example of a rare WWII transitional German MP-38/40 submachine gun produced by the ERMA Werke factory in Dauchau, Germany. Typically the MP-40s were called a "Schmeisser"; however, they are actually a "Machine Pistole" which derives from the Germans use of "MP" in their model numbers. They used many wartime stampings combined with limited machined parts to reduce manufacturing time and reduce cost. They were produced by three factories: ERMA Werke, Haenel and Steyr, with this example produced by the ERMA Werke factory in Dauchau in 1941. This is a rare transitional model that still retains the early MP38 ribbed receiver tube with the smooth milled, flat sided magazine housing. The rear receiver end cap is stamped with: "M.P.38/ayf/41" and "1232d" on the side followed by a "WaA280" Waffenamt proof. The left side of the barrel nut, receiver tube, magazine housing and trigger housing are stamped with matching serial number "1232d" (the rigger housing markings are very faint) and the appropriate "WaA280" Waffenamt proofs. Additionally, the various other parts, bolt, rear sight assembly have other non-matching serial numbers, and the firing pin and barrel assembly are unnumbered. It has the traditional dark red bakelite grips and lower receiver cover. This MP-38/40 is complete with two original WWII magazine and an original magazine loading tool. The tool is marked "ghn 40/MP39u.40" and a single "WaA815" Waffenamt. The two magazines are Waffenamt proofed on the back sides with one marked with a maker's code of "kur 42" while the other one is unmarked. There is a small import mark on the right, front underside of the receiver that reads: "MP38/GERMANY/9MM/INTER AMERICAN/SACTO. CA."