s&w .38 special ctg

[travelinglight420]

My grandad gave me this old. 38 special, and I was wondering how old, and what it's appraised at. It's a Smith and Wesson .38 special ctg with a 4" barrel. The serial # on the bottom of grip is 406161, same as cylinder. There is another serial# 34139. The dates on top of the barrel are Oct. 8, 01, dec. 17, 01, feb. 6, 06, sept. 14, 09 and dec. 29, 14. Can anyone tell me how old, and/or how much its worth?

Thanks a bunch.

 

[jpn8801]

I actually have the same handgun i just inherited as well. My serial # is 405153

 

[Old Fuff]

An approximate date of manufacture would be early 1920's. For more specific information see below.

Information concerning historical letters of authentication from Smith & Wesson’s historian, Roy G. Jinks can be obtained from the link listed below.

In exchange for a $50.00 research fee (make any check out to Smith & Wesson, not Mr. Jinks) he will search through the company’s original records until he finds your particular revolver. He will then send you an official letter which usually includes:

A short history of the revolver model’s background.

What the barrel length, caliber/cartridge, finish and stocks were, as well as the exact date it was shipped from the factory – and to what distributor, dealer or individual – as whatever the case may be.

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...4_750001_750051_757825_-1_757814_757812_image

 

[Radagast]

Between September 1920 (serial 358xxx) & 1927 (500xxx). Asssuming production of around 20,000 guns a year, 1922 or 1923 seems likely.