Smith & Wesson Model One-and-a-Half

[FPrice]

Was looking through the "new" additions to a local dealer's stock tonight. He had a nice Colt Model 1903 in .32ACP but it was a bit worn. As I wandered away from it he called me over and said that I might be more interested in what he had in front of him.

It was a mottled green, very old case. Inside was a nickled, 3", Excellent or near-Excellent Smith & Wesson Model One-and-a-Half in .32 S&W Centerfire. This is the oldest S&W I have ever seen personally. Some faded writing on the bottom of the case suggested that thisdated to 1903, but the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson lists production years of this model as 1878-92. The serial number was 58,xxx, out of 97,574 produced.

I normally do not like to get firearms I can't shoot but I am wondering if I should consider this one? I might be able to get it for $500.

Should I make the offer?

 

[Old Fuff]

No you should not make an offer. Instead you should send me the dealer’s name, address and phone number …..

Really, what you should do is run, not walk. If the casing is original it could well be worth several hundred dollars in itself. The 1903 date could be something a later owner put on it. A picture sent to Roy Jinks would bring some answers. Most of the #1 ½ .32’s you find are in rough, well used shape – and almost never cased. Jim Supica’s estimated value of the gun is $350.00 or better in “fineâ€* condition, and some are worth a lot more (go back and read the book again).

* Fine = 30% + finish, all original parts, fine bore and unmarked wood.

(Edited to add A 1 1/2 should be in .32 Rimfire, not Center fire, and barrels were 3 1/2, not 3 inches long. Go take a close look ...