I have the opportunity to acquire the same model revolver, circa 1953, whose serial number directly precedes mine. This one comes with original box, which mine does not have. Now, there are a number of different models out there that I’d like to own also. So what would you do, go for the consecutive serial numbers, or hold out and save the money for that next special gun?

For me, consecutive SNs are cool, but if I had to choose between that and getting another model that I really wanted, I would put my scarce cash towards that other model.

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Richard
Engraved S&W fan

I think it becomes necessary for you determine what's more important to you. Me, I'd go for the consecutive serial number.

I agree with Richard... I'd get another model. I once had a consectuive pair of Mofel 19s. When I set out to sell them I think I could have gotten just as much and maybe more if I'd sold them separately. Go with you heart.

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Randy
Provenance nerd

Does this answer your question?



How often do you find a consecutive serial number? In the future there will be other singles of the guns you want, the chance of finding another sequential serial number? Slim to none.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

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NRA Benefactor Member

Well, I’m leaning towards letting it go for another one. Why have two of them sitting in my safe? Only upside to owning both is that I could perhaps sell them as a consecutive pair at some future date? But I don’t know if that would increase their value or not.

Depends.
What model is it?

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Regards,
Lee Jarrett

Quinn, I didn’t see your post before posting my last one.

Pre Model 40 Centennial.

Well, they are vintage. 5 screw? You make no mention of what it is or if it matches the condition of what you have. If the 2 guns are nice and comparable, I would do it

One of the big mistakes of my life was selling a pair of Krieghoff K-80's that were blue super scroll trap guns with consecutive serial numbers that I special ordered. One unsingle bbl, and one over/under. Both receivers were factory cross fitted to swap barrels.

All things being equal, I would do it. I like unique serial numbers. I once had a pre M27 S 123456 in my hand. I would have bought it if it was for sale

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Pete
I ain't no fortunate son

As said, and it to me would be the most important factor in this decision, what manufacturer and model and condition are you referencing?
If they were consecutive numbers on 1953 K-22's in great condition, I would jump at the second one.
If we are discussing beat up H&R's I would pass.
So, bottom line: It's an opportunity that you have and you are holding all the cards. Your call. Let us know.

Pre-Model 40 Centennial. 4 digit serial number, second year production, also gun was built in my birth year (1953). My gun, 95%, gun for sale, 98%.

If it is priced reasonably, I would get it.

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Regards,
Lee Jarrett

I’d go for the consecutive’s... *IF* they were single-actions that I could wear in a two-gun cowboy rig.

Of course, you could buy the new one with its box, and sell your other one (that doesn’t have a box), and improve your collection that way.

no brainer in my opinion.
-how often do you have a chance at consecutives?
-how often do you have a chance to purchase a version of the other model you're looking at?

Unless the other model you're wishing to purchase is something super rare......another will come along.
Most likely not with another consecutive

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Colton Cooley SWCA #3169

I bought mine 3 years ago next month. The one I’m looking at is currently around $250 more than what I paid for mine. Granted, just a little better condition plus original box. Had seller send me a picture of frame under stocks, couldn’t determine from picture if the extra pin for the lemon squeezer was present.

I personally don't see any reason to own more than one of the exact same thing at a time. But then I'm not everybody and it isn't my money.

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That's just somebody talkin.

Last year I noticed my LGS had a couple of pre 18 Combat Masterpieces for sale both with Target Hammers and NR Target Stocks consecutive serial numbers no box but in great shape $550.00 each. Unfortunately I could afford only one bought it had it lettered and come to find out that's exactly the way they were made and shipped in 1953.now kicking myself for not finding a way to have bought the other one. I for one think it would be great to have consecutive serial numbered guns especially if their a unique pair.

Pin, Smin, doesn’t mater
Buy it, thank me later. Consecutive numbers are cool

I generally try for one of a model, but in each finish.
E.G :



Everyone collects differently- get what appeals to you.
Consecutive numbers aren't my thing, but a higher condition gun would be. Get the new one, sell the one you have.

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SWCA #3356, SWHF#611

With the clarification from the OP, I would go for the consecutive serial numbers. Can one have enough pre-40 1953 Smiths? And, what are the odds you will ever be able to mate up consecutive numbers again?
If that doesn't float the boat, get it, sell the first one (of lesser condition/no box) and you have upgraded nicely.
It's your call, and now you have several opinions. Do what makes you feel best.

Well, I went ahead and took the advice of the ‘buy’ camp. Can’t wait for it to be delivered so I can hold them both in my hands. I’ll be sure to post some pictures for you. Thanks everyone for your opinions.

Probably too late for this opinion, but how often do you think you’ll find birth year consecutive serial numbers?

That alone would seal the deal for me to buy them (pricing of course would have to be in line with their value).

Nice show off pieces to your buddies as a bonus, win win!

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Danny
SWCA #3370 - SWHF #672

I'd go with the consecutive number pistol, you can always pick up the other model at a later time. I have several consecutive sets, all but one by accident. Only one was purchased as a consecutive set, they were Winchester WIN-13 Garands. The others were by chance, where I recognized the serial of a rifle or pistol for sale as being close to one I owned, checked and found to be consecutive, then begged or bid furiously to bring them home. The hunt is part of the fun, the accidental discovery is even cooler. Go for it.

Grab the consecutive SN as long as you are not paying a premium for the SN. You can sell it or the other to finance another purchase, that or maybe someone is willing to pay a premium for both because of the consecutive SNs

Today is the only day you have any control over. When tomorrow gets here it will be today. Buy the gun !

Good move. That is an extremely lucky find! My pre 64 Win 70 Fwt 30-06 and my PH's (in Africa) pre 64 Win 70 Std 270 were less than 100 apart in serial numbers. they were probably made the same day!

You made the right buy. The government will send you a check for it anyway.

I would go back to the LGS, ask him to look up and contact the buyer of the other gun on your behalf. All may not be lost

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Pete
I ain't no fortunate son

If I had seen your thread soon enough I would have been in the "buy" camp.

How do you know both Centennials were '53 models?

I have a 4-digit Centennial that shipped in '55. Centennial sales were grim in those early years.

Even with that bit of pessimism and skeptism, having two consecutive serial numbered Centennials is very cool!

Congrats. Looking forward to pictures.

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Wrangler of stray Chiefs
Bob

I sorta have a thing for unique serial numbers. In poker terms, I have a couple of two pairs, a full house and a four of a kind.
I probably would have bought that gun too.

OTOH, I wouldn't pay any more for consecutive serial numbers than I would if the guns were sold separate.