I inherited a nickel-plated top-break .32 double action 4th model (serial number 90045), which appears to be in excellent condition. I also have ammo for it. Can someone tell me how to determine its age and value?

Attached Images

S&W1 (3).jpg (138.9 KB, 206 views)

With SN 90045 it would be a fourth model. As a guess, it would probably have shipped around 1887. Unless it is in absolutely pristine condition with the original box, maybe $200 tops. Many like yours were made and many survive in high condition having spent most of their existence in someone's nightstand drawer. The .32 DAs don't have much of a collector following in less than top condition, and are not too desirable as personal defense weapons due to their puny caliber. However, yours is definitely a BATFE antique (1899 cutoff SN is 209301), which is a point in its favor.

According to Supica's SCSW, serial numbers range started with approx 43,000 in 1883 to 283000 in 1909.
Value is determined by a few factors such as finish,barrell length and overall condition along with any original accessories such as box etc,
On this forum,pictures are probably the only way to determine approx value other than a general estimate of $50 to $500.

Thanks for your replies. I posted one photo and can post others, if necessary. The barrel length is 3.5 in. There is no box. It's been in a safe for decades.

It's in nicer condition than I expected, but does show some wear and use.

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! It's in nice shape. I had one like it that was close to 99% that I bought for $250 a few years ago. Did the ammo come with the gun? You might want to post a picture of the box. There are folks here that can tell you how old it is and the ammo itself may have added value.

__________________
Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629

I had forgotten earlier to mention the ammunition. If the box is antique, full, and is in reasonably good condition, there is a possibility it could be worth as much as the revolver. If you wish to post a few pictures of it showing all sides and ends, it can probably be identified and dated.

The box isn't what I thought. Peters Rustless 32 automatic cartridges with only about 10 left.

Those are not the correct cartridges for your gun. The .32 auto is loaded to a higher pressure than the 32 S&W and will accelerate wear of the gun. Yes, they will fit in the gun but are not correct.

__________________
H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

The .32 ACP case is longer than the .32 S&W. It doesn't chamber in my HE 4th or in my SA 1-1/2. Good, because the pressure of the 32 ACP would not be good for these old top breaks.