I just found a pre model 40 Centennial (I think) It has a flat latch and the lemmon squeezer grip,Hi horn grips Serial on butt 3XX the grips have the same number. It is blue. I was told that this was bought and carried by a local Police Officer in the late 50s to early 60s could this be right.I was told they started making these in 1952. I am thinking of lettering this gun. When I learn to post pictures I will. Oh Hi this is my first post this is a great sight.

I just found a pre model 40 Centennial (I think) It has a flat latch and the lemmon squeezer grip,Hi horn grips Serial on butt 3XX the grips have the same number. It is blue. I was told that this was bought and carried by a local Police Officer in the late 50s to early 60s could this be right.I was told they started making these in 1952. I am thinking of lettering this gun. When I learn to post pictures I will. Oh Hi this is my first post this is a great sight.

Sounds like a very early serial number, congrats on finding it.

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John

WOULD LOVE TO SEE IT! They are nice pieces!
PB

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Need 1/2 moon Chiefs special

Welcome to the forum, and congrats on the great find! With a very low 3-digit serial number, that does indeed sound like one of the earliest Centennials, probably from 1952.

Welcome gunnut315!

It sounds like you found and interesting old S&W. First, congratulations! and second, with a 3 digit serial number, I would definitely spend the money to letter the piece. You will, most likely, be able to recover that - and more - if you ever decide to sell.

I would also recommend you purchase Supica & Nahas's Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson. This text will provide you with lots of information about S&W's and will give you hours of pleasure in the process.

Regards, Jerry

Thanks I used to work in a gun shop late 70s ended up selling all my guns am now starting to buy back the older smiths I find.

gunnut315,
Cool gun...Congratulations!

I came upon a four-digit (14xx) gun a few years ago...a shooter.

This one is blue as well and according to S&W Customer Service, it was manufatured in 1952.

Bob

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"Onward thru the Fog"

Looks like you came across a "Pre 40 Centennial"
The name Centennial came from the hundreth year of S&W Productuion 1852-1952 & you do have a low serial #, I had #24X but like a fool traded it.. I've been a Centennial Junkie ever since, being the shrouded hammer makes it one of the finest concealed carry guns on the planet..
You might wanna letter it but I think You'll find it was made in 1953-1954..
Don't shoot any +P rounds through it & it should last for another lifetime or two or three
Gary/Hk

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MightShowYouHisSmith&Wesson