That serial number was manufactured in 1955 so I would not have shipped in 1954, but maybe as late as 1956.
The 6" Masterpiece box would be close to 12.5" long, while the correct length for a 4" Combat Masterpiece would be under 10" long., BUT the label would read "Masterpiece" or "Combat Masterpiece" if original. Unless the revolver was originally sent with Target stocks, the box would be a 4 hole metal corner. I have, however, a matching Gold box and set of uncommonly serial number stamped target stocks that came with an early post-war 6" K22 Masterpiece and the box is a 4 hole metal corner box. Apparently, the gun was already complete with fitted Magnas and the buyer also ordered a set of targets from the factory. If wrapped in paper, they would fit fine in the box, so maybe that is how the gun was shipped?? It is correct that the Target stocks do not fit in the standard boxes, so N frame boxes were used and re-labeled. It seems that there are exceptions to every rule when it comes to S&W.
I found a couple of images that might be of interest. The two Masterpiece revolvers with Targets and one with Magnas in their standard Gold Boxes. The second shows the difference in height between the K frame and N frame boxes.
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Gary
SWCA 2515
Last edited by glowe; 03-23-2017 at 09:48 AM.
Reason: added images
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