I have a top break 5 shot .32SW with a serial number of 231XXX and a patent date of April 1886.
Any idea what model this is or a manufacture date??

You didn't give us much to go on, but I will make an attempt to answer your question.

If it has an exposed hammer it is probably a .32 Double Action 4th Model. Serial range 43,406 to ~282999. Made from 1883 - 1909.

If it is a concealed hammer (hammerless) it is probably a .32 Safety Hammerless (aka New Departure, Lemon Squeezer) 3rd Model. Serial range 170,000 - 242,981. Made from 1909 - 1937.

Source: SCSW 3rd Edition.

U.B., Like Dean said, tell us more about what you have & someone will tell exactly what it is & when it was probably shipped from the factory. What type of grips? Hard Rubber or wood or?, where are all the serial numbers stamped? Barrel ears? Latch? butt? cylinder?,etc. What type of finish, and how much is left? length of the barrel ( measured from the front of the cylinder to end of barrel), Where on the gun is the Smith & Wesson logo stamped? Exactly what is stamped on the top of the barrel rib? Take off the grips (carefully) and tell us every letter, number or symbol stamped on both sides of the grip frame and last = Is there any number stamped, scratched or penciled on the back side of the right grip panel? Fill us in on all of the above and your prayers will be answered! Ed.

It's not a lemon squeezer. Exposed hammer. Left side of barrel marked 32 S&W ctg.
Hard rubber grips. S&W trademark on right side of frame below hammer. Top of barrel marked:

Smith & Wesson, Springfield Mass, U.S.A.

Pat'd May 11, 1880 Jan 2, 1992 April 2, 1889
Ser #251XXX marked on bottom of grip frame. About 5% blue left. Don't rfeally care what it's worth. I like it.

3 1/2" bbl. Unfortunately I can't post a pic. My camera is on it's way back to the Fuji factory for repairs.
Anybody?

I'll stand by my first guess,.32 Double Action 4th Model. Serial range 43,406 to ~282999. Made from 1883 - 1909. Probably manufactured after 1899, so not an antique.

Thanks. I appreciate it. When I pass it on to my heirs, it will be an antique.