Hey everyone. I've been lurking these forums for years and have always enjoyed the wealth of knowledge accumulated here. I currently have the following smiths in my collection...SD9VE 9mm, M&P 15, 642-1, 66-5 and my newest acquired model 1899 which I was looking for some info on. I'll try to upload some pics in the morning for you all as well. From what I understand so far it is a very early production gun. It is a 4 screw side plate, I'll double check the barrel length but I believe it is a 5", blued, never refinished...retains about 60 percent of original bluing, no rust, original grips, matching serial number which is 4 digits (1981), chambered in 38 special and does not have the CTG roll mark. Does not have any military markings but does have the S&W roll mark on left side and the patent roll marks on top of barrel. Looks to be shot very little and lock up is great.
I am curious to see if you folks believe this may be a bit rarer than some and if anyone has a ballpark value on it. Thanks everyone and look forward too being part of this family in the future.