I have no idea how many were made. I do know they do not show up regularly. I had one several years ago that now belongs to a sister in law.
It took me a long time to locate another acceptable specimen that a fellow forum member was kind enough to let me purchase. This one will not leave my possession. I would buy another in an instant if it came up for a reasonable price. Both of the ones I have had were very good shooters, well balanced and carry very well. I never shot 357 out of the first one, but this second one got 20 rounds of 158 gr 357 shot through it this past weekend. Not too bad for recoil. I would not suggest feeding the little J frame a steady diet of 357, but it is quite manageable with it if the need or desire arises.