Regarding the model 57...It seems like the very early models 1964-66 seem to be selling right up there with pre model 29's.This seems more so in the four inch barrel.Then after the early years they seem to be selling for 40 % less than a like condition 29.The latter half makes sense,but what makes the very early ones so valuable to collectors?

I suspect it is a combination of the earlier style case, the S prefix and the Special Target (aka coke bottle) stocks. And bragging rights when you find one .

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

I think you are right on the money here.

That there were a lot fewer model 57s made and sold than model 29s. There are only so many super clean ones out there. And there are comparatively many more shooter grade guns.

Agree with the above, an early 57 with cokes and 8 3/8 S prefix serial # just sold in the 3k range on GB. The 8 3/8 barrel length in the early years are extremely hard to find, especially in collector quality.

For so many years the 8 3/8" barrels were like red headed step children and the lowest priced N frames. What has happened like over night?

The nickel ones are quite scarce.

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BCCI Life Member #2068

Saw that 8 3/8" first year sell for $3K...and from the same dealer was a 1964 6" that sold for almost $2600. Both were excellent in the original cases.

I agree with all the above reasons for 57s selling for more than 29s... From what I have seen however the newer guns, say a 1975 vintage 29 and 57 sell close to the same money if in the same condition and finish...

Picked up a 1964 8 3/8" last year but didn't have the box or Cokes. But it was priced right and I wanted a shooter not a collector so that was ok.. It also completed the collection of 1964 blue 57s I have...

4-5-6-8 3/8-and a 58...



Bob

Funny but I have noted the same thing...not only with 57s but all the models...used to be you couldn't give them away...

Bob

I been buying the N frames in nickel finish when I see them. I said before the 41mag is getting it's just do in the lime light. I thought the m57 & M58 were more popular over the many years. I think it's been a secret for decades how good they are.
But in the 8 3/8" barrel lengths all the calibers are priced higher.