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11-26-2017, 08:26 PM
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PREWAR KIT GUN VALUE
I am trying to get opinions on the current market value of serial #529663. I've read DCWilson's post that the serial range for these kit guns actually started at about #529500 so maybe this one is from 1937-39. Action and bore are perfect. There are a few signs of use on grips, right side and front sight. Case colors on hammer and trigger. Grips are very tightly fitted, but not stamped or penciled with a serial that I can see. No box. Frame stamped with "B" on right side of butt and with an "S" on the left side. Blueing is nice and deep. Cylinder, frame and barrel serials all match.
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11-26-2017, 08:28 PM
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A few more photos
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11-26-2017, 08:35 PM
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It appears to be a nice, original example. It would be a good idea (even with matching numbers) to have a letter of authenticity from the SWHF to confirm it is factory original, if you have not already done so.
Others here can give a value estimate better than I, like DCWilson . Hope this is helpful.
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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220
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11-26-2017, 08:51 PM
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Have you tried using a very white light such as a LED flashlight to look for penciled numbers on the grip panels? My 1927 vintage M&P target's grip markings were not visible, but with a bright white light the pencil numbers are faint but legible. Sorry I'm not up to par to help with value. Very nice one you have there!
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11-26-2017, 09:00 PM
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Nice specimen, which I would call a 98% gun because of what looks like muzzle wear, a splotch on the front sight, and a couple of fine scratches and minor blemishes on the frame. Maybe it's the light, but the ejector rod shaft looks surprisingly unworn. Nothing about the gun makes me think it has been refinished. It is likely to have shipped in late 1936 or early 1937 based on recorded ship dates for nearby serial numbers.
I would expect to pay between $2250 and $2750 for that gun depending on whatever market comparables could be turned up. Below $2250 it's a steal; above the high end, it kind of depends on how much you want it. I don't know, but I would guess that an informed seller might start at $3000 or a bit more to give himself some negotiating room. If he has read and believed the Blue Book, he will be both misinformed on its value and optimistic without warrant on a proper price.
I bought my last prewar KG nearly five years ago. My sense is that the market sank for a while after that, and then started to come back up. How far, I don't know. I will be happy to be corrected if someone can report recent comparables that are out of sync with my numbers.
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David Wilson
Last edited by DCWilson; 11-27-2017 at 01:18 AM.
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11-27-2017, 12:14 AM
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I can't add anything to what has been said, other than that is what I have dreams of finding in some pawnshop incorrectly identified, and at a ridiculously low price. A beautiful S&W indeed !
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11-27-2017, 12:27 AM
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SWCA Member Absent Comrade
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Much of the controversy over pricing the pre-war Kit Guns is because of erroneous values in Blue Book Values over the past few years.
I have inquired to Steve Fjestadt, owner of "Blue Book" for origin of the pricing he currently posts to question the contributing editor that supplied the current posted pricing on the pre-war Kit Guns (stated withing a certain serial number range).
Any / all input on corrected pricing is appreciated. Contact me via Email, please. Thanks to all.
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ANTIQUESMITHS
LM1300 SWHF425
Last edited by model3sw; 11-30-2017 at 03:02 PM.
Reason: amended
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11-27-2017, 02:06 AM
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Are you looking at one to buy?
Or valuing one that you have?
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Jim
S&WCA #819
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11-27-2017, 04:17 PM
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Jim, I am valuing one that I have. Thank you.
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11-27-2017, 04:31 PM
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Yours is a beauty.
I agree with David Wison, yours is worth between $2500 - $3000. He's right, the market seems to be a bit soft right now.
But since you're not selling, no problem, the potential value is there! And you at least know what to insure it for, if you do.
Sent you a PM also.
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Jim
S&WCA #819
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11-28-2017, 01:48 AM
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Thank you to all the commenters, particularly David and Jim for the valuation advice.
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11-30-2017, 11:20 AM
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November 2015 I stole a pre war kit 95% no box or tools for 1750.00 the next week I paid what I considered top dollar for a 98% with box. Very happy with both purchases.
Mark
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