I have a Mod 66-2 4" and the serial number on the bottom of the grip and the one behind the yoke are one number off. The number on the bottom of the grip is 308Kxxx and the number under the yoke is 307Kxxx. The last 3 numbers are the same in both locations. Is this normal? I bought this pistol brand new from a gun shop in the early 80's and it has never been to a gunsmith or had any alterations.

That is an extremely cool and wildly interesting error, or at least what certainly seems like a factory error.

I've heard it many times that the "official" serial number location is on the bottom of the butt, but I'm not sure if folks call that official simply because that was the original location, and on the frame behind the yoke was an idea implemented later.

This one is extremely interesting because over the years, it has most likely put a number of FFL's at risk for having recorded the wrong number.

I think it'd be a great one to letter!

Welcome to the Forum

That factory mis-mark has occurred more then once over the decades

The correct serial number is the one on the bottom of the grip frame.

That is where Modern Smith and Wesson revolvers have their serial numbers.

If the model in question usually ships from the factory with grips that cover the serial number located at the bottom of the grip frame, Smith and Wesson traditionally puts a second number in a location that can be read without grip removal

Over the years, that second location is mostly seen under the cylinder crane. However other locations have been used as well. These include the underside of the top strap, the frame just below the cylinder window and another one or two that do not come to mind at the moment.

Welcome to the Forum! You can learn a lot here.

Yes I have the original wooden S&W grips on it and they do cover up the serial number. Does this error add any value to the pistol like mint errors on coins?

No, not like coins

Most folks will shy away from buying it, even at a reduced price, fearing that the different numbers could get them in to trouble with the Feds (it won't).

If you found a collector of errors, there might be a slight premium to him/her

If you letter it give them both numbers. Mr Jinks should be able to tell you which is the correct number.
Walt

That is really cool. I'd give you 50 extra bucks for it

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-Matt

Agreed, I might pay a hair extra too for it! I'd run a Roy Jinks letter just for S&G's to find out if they gun means anything to you... and I'm sure it does if you've had it since the 80's...

A forum member here says he's never seen the serial number underneath the Top Strap that WASN'T a Performance Center Gun... I found that neat back when I was researching my Mountain Back Packer and it made sense, since it was virtually like new and was nicer than any of my well worn in Smith triggers.