XIX is proof yr 1963
star/PSF is final smokeless proof for both Brescia or Gardone V.T. proof houses
(This mark is usually stamped along side a 'star/finito' stamping indicating the firearm has been inspected after proofing and is approved for retail sale.)
This particular star/shield is the provisional proof of the Gardone ValTrompia (SP?) proof house. It usually has a tiny 'V. T.' on either side of the upper side of the shield for this late of a marking.
Brescia Proof Hs has a very similar mark only differing in the tiny figure inside the shield,,, and no 'V.T.' marking
This, IMO, would be the 'Pocket Model', brought out in '46 or 47..I believe only in 32acp cal.
The other small autos were the 'Baby' & 'Vest Pocket'. The Baby being in 22s or Long. The VP in 25acp. These were open top slide designs like a Beretta.
Later a Model 68 took both their places and calibers and had a solid enclosed top slide. Mod68's are more commonly seen still.
FWIW, I think the 'Pocket Model' was also available with an extended bbl. Same slide,,just a naked round bbl extending forward. Maybe to favor some of the Euro gun laws.
star/PSF is final smokeless proof for both Brescia or Gardone V.T. proof houses
(This mark is usually stamped along side a 'star/finito' stamping indicating the firearm has been inspected after proofing and is approved for retail sale.)
This particular star/shield is the provisional proof of the Gardone ValTrompia (SP?) proof house. It usually has a tiny 'V. T.' on either side of the upper side of the shield for this late of a marking.
Brescia Proof Hs has a very similar mark only differing in the tiny figure inside the shield,,, and no 'V.T.' marking
This, IMO, would be the 'Pocket Model', brought out in '46 or 47..I believe only in 32acp cal.
The other small autos were the 'Baby' & 'Vest Pocket'. The Baby being in 22s or Long. The VP in 25acp. These were open top slide designs like a Beretta.
Later a Model 68 took both their places and calibers and had a solid enclosed top slide. Mod68's are more commonly seen still.
FWIW, I think the 'Pocket Model' was also available with an extended bbl. Same slide,,just a naked round bbl extending forward. Maybe to favor some of the Euro gun laws.
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