I saw this 38 M&P model of 1905 4th. change at my LGS the
other day. It has a blue finish, 4 inch bbl. black rubber RB
grips, and no "Made in the USA" stamped on the lower right
front frame area. The hammer and trigger are gold plated,
and the serial number is 388836. I was wondering if anyone
might have an idea when it went out the door?
SN 388836 would have a likely shipping date in late 1921. Recognize that S&W did not ship in serial number order, and the only way to get a precise shipping date is to get a factory letter ($50). From a value standpoint, the gold-plated components do nothing for it, and may actually decrease it. At that time, S&W called it simply a Military and Police (M&P) model revolver with a round butt. Model of 1905, 4th Change is collector-speak.