Beautiful gun!!! That looks like a Mexican Model to me (one of 2,900, SN Range S812000 - S833000) - the post-war .38 M&P Target, prior to the factory coming out with the K38 Masterpiece. BUT I am no expert on this model...but I do have to say WOW!!! I also do not believe that it shipped in a gold box, but in one of the burgundy boxes (someone please correct me if I'm wrong).

Thanks for sharing,

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Richard
Engraved S&W fan