The factory would not have manufactured a sightless barrel for a 32 Safety. Things that point to post-factory modifications include that there was no slot for the front sight, the rear sight was removed simply by filing off the sight on the top latch, the barrel was cut, the gun was improperly refinished because the latch, trigger, and guard were originally blued.
Attached are pictures of some of my 32 Safeties showing the barrel stamping as I had mentioned above. The SMITH & WESSON stamp was always located at the rear of the barrel no matter what the barrel length. Late 3rd Model examples show that the roll stamping was moved slightly forward, but comparing it with your stamp, I assume you have an earlier 3rd Model.
Take a look at the photos of original factory guns and you will see several differences between them and yours. First, is an image of two 2nd Model Safeties showing location of the left side barrel S&W roll stamp. Second, is a 3rd Model showing blued parts (plated on your gun). Third is the original single line address (removed on your gun) and rear sight (removed on your gun) found on 3rd Model. Fourth, an image is of the muzzle of a 3rd Model (different than your gun). Last my self-serving shot of some of my 32 Safeties.
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Gary
SWCA 2515
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