Can you provide a picture of the serial number on the butt and on the rear face of the cylinder. As someone else here has suggested that letter preceding the number is most likely a V. These guns were commonly referred to as "Victory" models due to the V prefix in the serial number. They were quite prolific after WWII and cheap. It was very common to re-finish or otherwise modify these guns for personal preference. Yours is a prime example of one of these guns. I don't think the gun is dangerous, but its value has been severely diminished. It is a K frame and any grip suitable for a K frame can be used. If you like the gun that is all that really matters, but I think your original inquiry has been answered. By the way, here is what you're gun probably looked like before modificating!



Well, I've tried several times to turn this pic, but no go. Just turn your head sideways and you'll see it!