Agree with late 1941 Lend-Lease
I did some research for a friend of my son who had inherited several guns when his father passed away. One of them was a S&W 38-200, 5" revolver that was the "pre "V" prefix and serial number 888081, US Property marked, flaming bomb and WB initials on butt, blue finish, original numbered grips.
Per Pate's book it probably shipped October 1941.
The British commercial proof marks translated to 1955, and no importer marks can be found anywhere on the revolver.
The Op's serial number is in this area so maybe a late 41 shipment would be my guess. Also agree that $450 would be about right for the OP's gun if mechanically sound.
PS: don't accidentally drop it when loaded if you come into some 38-200 ammo, as it may accidentally discharge. The gun doesn't have the hammer block modification done late in the war and evidenced by a "S" on the sideplate.
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Charlie B
SWCA#3083, SWHF#570
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