i love snubbies, and i must admit to rescueing a colt once in a while. here is a 52 vintage with factory pearls:
here is one from 68. not much different, longer ejector rod, slightly different barrel address on the right side, no more "two-tone" finish.
here is one from 1974. several changes, shrouded ejector rod, ramp style sight, and more "modern" target-style grips without a medallion.
nickel is definitely a little more scarce, it seems, but the nickel ones really start to look bad, if their finish isn't nearly perfect. they are good guns. light, dependable, 6 shots.