I read the SN as V26579. If so, it would have shipped about June or July 1942. In addition to the 5" barrel, most of the V-models shipped in that SN range were .38/200s for the British. A very nice piece, assuming the chambers have not been bored out for .38 S&W Special. If you can find a .38 S&W Special round or case, check to see if it can be fully inserted. If not, you are golden. It would be a Lend-Lease weapon. Also, see what the caliber stamping is on the side of the barrel, and remove the grips to see if the same serial number is stamped inside, on the back of the wood panels. You might also supply what any other markings stamped into the metal are.