I'm a newbie and quite often don't know what these model numbers mean. Wikipedia saved the day again.
Smith & Wesson .38/44 - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"Inability of conventional police service revolver ammunition to reliably penetrate automobiles was perceived as a problem as United States law enforcement agencies encountered organized crime funded by Bootlegging in response to prohibition."
Congratulations on your acquisition of this very interesting transitional pre-.357 N frame. It is interesting the cartridge was developed as a higher pressure load to allow bullet penetration into criminal's vehicles.
I am green with envy!