This is my first post. I recently was going through a pistol that my father left to my brother-in-law. It is a 32-20 with serial #189xx. It has very little play, is mechanically sound and comes with a period holster. I would guess that the finish is about 70%. When was the date of manufacture and what is a reasonable price for this pistol? Thanks.
I think the shipping date would be around 1905-1906. I could not hazzard a guess as to value but I am sure someone a little more knowledgable than I will chime in.
dorvic, Welcome to the Forum. Are you sure it's a Smith & Wesson and not a Spanish copy? What is the barrel length? Round Butt or Square butt? Finish blue or nickel? All numbers match, including the grips? Can you post a picture? Assuming that it's a S&W, then based on the serial number, it's a Model of 1905, aka: .32-20 hand ejector, 3rd model. Value would be around $275, plus or minus $50. The gun was probably made in 1905. Ed.