I have a S&W 38 cal pistol from the late 1800's. I would like to sell it and I would like to know what it is worth. The inscription on the barrel ids as follows:

"Smith & Wesson Springfield Mass USA Pat'D Jan 17 & 24.65 July 11.65 Aug 24.69 Jan 19, 1875 Reissue July 25, 1871"

There is a number inscribed on the cylinder that matches the number inscribed on the bottom of the handle "4281". I'm told that this is significant.

I took the pistol to a local gun shop and the owner told me that the pistol was probably worth upwards of $1500.00 but, a real collector of S&W firearms might be willing to go highrer still.

I would appreciate any help or advice from the members of this forum. Thanks.