Let me start by thanking the forum for the help you gave me on the hand ejector ID yesterday. This is another gun from the same collection. The attached pictures are what I think is a 3rd Model .32 Safety Hammerless Top Break New Departure. It appears that someone has ground rust off of it and then replated it. Some pitting can still bee seen and also light grinding marks. You can also see thqat some of the edges have been slightly rounded. Serial number is 138659. I would like help in 1. Positive ID 2. Manufacturing date. 3. Can this gun be fired and what ammunition is best for this vintage. I have numerous high def photos if that is of any help. Any assistance is appreciated.

Attached Images

	S&W Safety Hammerless Top Break New Departure SN 138659 (24).jpg (103.4 KB, 60 views)
	S&W Safety Hammerless Top Break New Departure SN 138659 (26).jpg (107.9 KB, 65 views)

Thats' a 2nd Model, and probably shipped 1905-1906.

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Peter #2091

Thanks. I'm sorry that I did not notice the earlier post by scoundrel concerning his second model. I would not have reasked the questions if I would have seen his post. The ID info is outstanding.
In my example, the stamping on the barrel top, under the latch, and on the rear of the cylinder have been ground enough before replating that they are almost impossible to read. In the case of the serial number (under the latch) I can make out enough of it to confirm that it matches the bottom of the grips.
This gun is part of a family collection and will not be sold but I would still be interested in a guestimate of value. I'm also very interested in opinions as to wether it can be fired and recommendations for ammo. The grinding that occured has not compromised the integrity of any of the components but I do question if the metal temperature during grinding, hot cleaning solutions, or replating could have altered the metals characteristics. Any opinions would be welcomed.

It would be very unusal that the refinishing process could have generated enough heat to affect the metal integrity, so if the mechanical condition of the action is in good order, firing the gun with the correct ammo. shold not be a concern. The value of the gun is very low due to the refinshing work you describe, and any collector value related to condition is gone. Shooter or wall hanger value is probably $100 to $125 range. Ed.