Bought this in December from a forum member. Gun is in great condition and came with a letter from the Navy Pilot that carried it in WWII and later. I've been waiting for letter from Roy Jinks so I could publish complete history. Now I need a light box so I can take decent pictures!
S&W Letter
Your handgun with serial number V307515 was shipped from our factory on July 15, 1943 and delivered to the United States Navy, Oakland, CA. This firearm was shipped with a 4 inch barrel, military midnight black finish, butt swivel, and smooth walnut grips.
Commander Letter
Revolver left the States, en rout to Japan, in 1944. Traveling in a Navy PB4Y-1 (Army B24) it island hopped to the Philippines. Before WWII ended it had additionally been on or over Guam, Tinian, Saipan, Japan, and China. It was carried, by me, in the fourth aircraft to land on Iwo Jima, (and while shots were still being fired by both sides) and was on the Island of Palawan (South China Sea) the day Japan ended the war.
It was carried during the Korean War and was loaded and ready to hit Cuba at one time. It has been worn, over 20 years by me, an Ensign, LT(jg), LT, LTCDR, and Navy Commander