I have just purchased a Model 36 no dash with the box with correct end label, no papers and Pacymayer grips :-(. The serial number is: 561J85 and I can't find the date in any of the books i have. I looked in The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson both 2nd and 3rd editions and can't find anything. Just the standard J data which is from J1 back in 1969 to the 1J1861-xxxx dates in 1983. My box is the dark blue 2 piece S&W and Bangor Punta Company box. Any help would be appreciated. I don't come to this site much and am sorry if this is posted somewhere else. I just can't find it. If there is another book I need to buy, please tell me which one. Thanks in advance

All the "floating J" numbers (yours) appear in 1971-1972.

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Ret. LE, FA Instr, S&W Armorer

With a "floating J" number that high, there is a better than average chance this gun was produced in 1972.
The "floating J" numbers have no more than 5 numeric digits and a J that moves its position down the line. They went from 1J1 to 999J99; all in 1971 and 1972. Those were the only years this sequence was used.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

The 1982-83 numbers had 6 numeric digits and the J did not "float." It was always in the second position.
You have a zero missing in your quotation (1J18601).

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Thanks for the help guys. I forgot to mention that it is a square butt. I am looking for a set of correct grips for it. The gun has some light freckling in places, so they don't have to be perfect, just nice.

Found a set on ebay and the guy had a beautiful set of banana grips for a round butt j frame as well for another piece I have. Once we got through negotiating, I wound up with both sets for $70.00 shipped. Thanks again for the help on the date......