First, let me explain that I am dying from Lymphoma Cancer and
will have no use for another Book, so I’m asking if someone will
please tell me when my old S&W was made as I want to have the
correct information for my Son who will inherit my collection.
I believe it is a Pre Model 10, 4” bbl, 5-screw, # S 8323XX
The S prefix pre-10s were made between 1946 and 1948 I believe. I have S837418, I think this one and yours were both made in 1946. Someone will be along to correct that if I'm wrong. Nice revolvers and something your son will greatly value. Thoughts and prayers are with your.
The closest SN on my list to yours is S8339xx which shipped in 8/46. It certainly would have been assembled shortly before that. And it is not a pre-Model 10, but a postwar M&P. In collector terminology, the pre-Model 10 did not exist prior to the adoption of the short action in early 1948.