If condition is everything, this may be the standard on which to base 100%.
The gun is virtually perfect. In 1955, Ray Shapero, a Detroit Collector, contacted Cabot and Webster in Yonkers, NY(owned by a friend of mine) that he wanted every variety of S&W handguns he could obtain in PERFECT condition...all done with a high gloss blueing (like the RMs), hand picked wood for the stocks, and with NO TURN LINES. The factory was able to provide 55 guns to Cabot and Webster for him, but with a $5.00/gun surcharge for the hand finish. The cost for Shapiro was a literal fortune, but he owned over 20 drug stores in Detroit. Ultimately, Robert Petersen purchased the entire collection.
Most of you know, I collect .32s, so why this gun? When I got two of the 32 Petersen guns...also from Shapero, and perfect (I posted these recently)...this Pre-37 Chiefs Special 38 Airtight was on the same invoice. Since I had the provenance, I decided to buy it.. I paid too much money, I knew it, but it was gorgeous. Now, it looks like I need a new A/C for the house.....selling this will help. Includes, box, tools, S&W letter, copies of factory records.
Asking $1350.....make private offers
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