I bought this Model 19 when I turned 21 in 1977. I paid $200 even for it (out the door). I have shot about 1 box of .357 magnum through it and about 300 rounds of .38 special. It still looks brand new. I (stupidly) threw the original gray box out about 10 years ago before I knew better. I almost sold it to a co-worker earlier this year, but couldn't go through with the sale...I ended up selling him a Model 28 instead. I decided it will be the LAST gun I own as well.