Can you tell me about this old S&W .32 revolver

[janedoedad]

This is Mrs. JDD's revolver, inherited from her grandfather. All I know is that it is a S&W .32. Serial # 96411 is stamped into the butt with a 5 point star to the right of the numbers. The same number is stamped into the bottom of the barrel where the ejector rod is. There is also a "P" inside a circle stamped in that location. The cylinder is also serialized. Next to the grip on the left side there appears to be a pin of some kind. There is a different number (4P917?, Can't tell due to wear) stamped the frame just above where the yoke is attached. The S&W logo on the left side is the scripted S&W with 'TRADE' above and 'MARK' below.

Any information is greatly appreciated!

 

[W.E.G.]

Hand-Ejector model 1903, second change variant?

Did I win?

 

[janedoedad]

That is a start!

Thanks!

 

[Jim Watson]

The star is an indication that it was returned to the factory for mechanical repair or replating. Or maybe plating to replace blue in what they used to call "change of finish."

 

[Radagast]

W.E.G has it right. >32 Hand Ejector Model of 1903 3rd Change manufactured in 1909 or 1910. Serial range for those years was 95501 to 96125. In 2006 the Standard Catalog of S&W gave a value of $315 in very good condition. The pearl grips may add a bit of value.

 

[Bluehawk]

manufactured in 1909 or 1910. Serial range for those years was 95501 to 96125.

But the serial number on his is 96411...it's outside the date range you gave...so would it be 1911 ?

 

[Radagast]

Woops! .32 Hand Ejector Model of 1903 4th Change, serial range 96126 to 102500, Manufactued in 1910. Minor internal changes com-pared to the 3rd change model. No change in SCSW value.
These guns predate heat treatment of cylinders. Don't use hot hand loads, stick to factory ammunition or handloads that emulate them.
They lack both the internal hammer block safety introduced in 1915 and the positive hammerblock introduced in 1944. If kept loaded it would be prudent to leave the chamber under the hammer empty. This will prevent an accidental discharge if the gun is dropped.

 

[janedoedad]

Thank you all very much! I truly appreciate the information.

JDD