A few of these I frame guns were sold in the late '40s mostly made up from prewar parts. Actual .38 S&W production in volume didn't resume until about 1950, with known #s 54804 and 58470 shipping in July 1951. With your serial and 5 screws I would say it shipped no later than c. 1954; a pre New Model of 1953 improved I frame as Alan said. It became the Model 32-1 in 1961 when the I frame was phased out and it began being produced on the J frame. The ammo is still available and many still shoot this cartridge and even load for it as I do. Some carry that gun as their concealed carry gun.

For $200, it's a very good deal w/90% original finish especially if it has original stocks. The serial # will be stamped on the inside of the right stock panel if the stocks are original to the gun.

The cartridge is no slouch, anything but anemic, and not that far behind the 38 Spl. You might be surprised, especially in the 200 gr police loading. The 38/200, as the Brits called it, was their standard military service revolver cartridge during world war II.

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Jim
S&WCA #819