Here's what I've got... some people who are good with this, enlighten me.

Smith & Wesson .357
Lazy Ampersand
Serial Number 100,8xx ("S" Prefix)
Matching numbers all around
5 Screw Frame
Pinned and Recessed
Looks to have a Target Hammer and Target Trigger

From my research it shows to be a 1953, Pre-Model 19 .357.

What is the finish on this handgun?!?
Is it a melonite refinish or something?
I've refrained from cleaning it up at all for the sake of not wanting to do anything stupid.

If some of you guys could tip me off as to anything you see, and the gun's general value, I'd appreciate it.

Cheers,
John

Welcome to the Forum.

You have a .357 Magnum. It later became the Model 27, not the Model 19. Yours is built on the N frame. The finish is after market, possibly Metalife or Armoloy.

The .357 Combat Magnum was introduced in 1955. It became the Model 19 when model numbers were assigned by S&W in 1957.

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John 3:16
WAR EAGLE!

Welcome and thanks for the photos.

With the S prefix in a .357, it is an N frame named...the .357 Magnum, after 1957 called the model 27. The very first Combat Magnums were shipped in 1956, in the early K 260000 SN range.

It appears to have an aftermarket finish, likely satin hard chrome. Should make a durable excellent shooting gun.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Thank you, gentlemen.
Your knowledge is very much appreciated.

This is apparently a 5" pre-model 27 357 magnum.
The topstrap is checkered and the pre model 28
was not.
Someone turned a sought after collectable into a
very fine mechanically, shooter.
If I had it and you had a feather.

1953 is a Birth year gun for me..................... if you have any interest in selling.......please PM me........ I've been looking for a BY Gun to carry and shoot!!!!!!!