I picked up a Pre-Model 10 SN# C 382225 4 in blue finish which looks to be around a 1956. It has a blue box with the solid silver "box" outline on the lid. Inside the lid is the Statement of Liability and Warranty. Inside the bottom is the directions for use in English and I believe Spanish. It does have the correct serial number written in grease pencil on the bottom of the box. On the one end of the lid is a small S&W in silver and on the other end of the lid I can see 4 inch Barrel and Blue Finish near the bottom. There is an old white sticker above that has all the gun information but I don't think that is original. I was told it came from the Perry, Ohio Police Dept. Gun is in very good condition with some light holster wear. Is it possible that this blue box is correct? I know most people say the blue boxes did not come out until the numbering system came out...in '57? Thank you.

__________________
Mike Klem

Entirely possible,and most probably correct. Even though your gun was mfgd in 1956,it could have shipped later,possibly much later. Is it a 4-screw gun?
f.t.

__________________
South Carolina-God's country

That box is probably right.
The white label was likely added by the P.D.

__________________
Regards,
Lee Jarrett

Thanks for the info...yes it is a 4 screw

__________________
Mike Klem

Roy Jinks said the gun shipped in March of 1957. It may have been the beginning of the "blue box" era then...

__________________
Mike Klem