S and W 44HE 2nd Model Value Question

Gun Relics

Gun Relics

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85% - 90% condition, 1920's, non-target with lanyard. Would a value of $1,000 - $1300 be a good deal or an average deal? I know it's not a bad deal for sure.

I'm not familiar with the values of these older Smiths and I'm starting to be interested in collecting them. I need to get a handle on values. Thanks.
 
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80% is pretty rough do you have pictures?

I wouldn’t give you anywhere close to your valuation of it.

If you keep an eye on auction site you should be able to pick up a nicer one for less.
 
I would recommend you get the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 5th Edition.
It just came out so values should be fairly current.
For the .44 Hand Ejector 2nd Model it says $2000 for Excellent and $1200 for Very Good (40 to 60%).
1920-1945 Excellent needs to be 95% for blue.
1890-1920 is 90%.
Also says barrel lengths other than 6-1/2" will bring a substantial premium.
 
DARE said:
I would recommend you get the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 5th Edition.
It just came out so values should be fairly current.
For the .44 Hand Ejector 2nd Model it says $2000 for Excellent and $1200 for Very Good (40 to 60%).
1920-1945 Excellent needs to be 95% for blue.
1890-1920 is 90%.
Also says barrel lengths other than 6-1/2" will bring a substantial premium.
Click to expand...

David, thanks - I saw that. I'm not so sure if these values are "street" prices, or more retail. I wanted to get some collector's opinions.

So in your opinion, it would be a pretty good buy. The actual condition I would say is between "very good" and "excellent".
 
We really need to see some pictures. I agree that 85% would be how I'd characterize one with lots of finish loss and obvious wear. But % condition evaluation is so subjective that it isn't too helpful in terms of giving a useful valuation estimate.

Here are a couple that I own. The first a very well used 5 inch 44 that has apparently covered a lot of miles that I paid $600 for about eight years ago. The second an original finish 6.5 inch 44 in nickel for $850 about seven years ago. I might find the 5 inch today for around $800 where I shop and the nickel one for $1200-$1500. I suppose the nickel one could go for more in an auction with a couple interested folks. Good luck.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

https://flic.kr/p/2np3dEJ https://www.flickr.com/photos/194934231@N03/

https://flic.kr/p/2n7i3Ds https://www.flickr.com/photos/194934231@N03/
 
I just bailed on a auction for a pretty decent second model in nickel. Some scratches on the side plates, but original nickel . I bailed at $1150, so plus plus the buyer is out maybe $1300...i think that was a fair price, I just saw that the other bidder had spent over $10k in the last few weeks on GN so I knew his pockets were deeper than mine.....seldom see nice 2nd models under $1000...

Robert
 
Gun Relics said:
85% - 90% condition, 1920's, non-target with lanyard. Would a value of $1,000 - $1300 be a good deal or an average deal? I know it's not a bad deal for sure.

I'm not familiar with the values of these older Smiths and I'm starting to be interested in collecting them. I need to get a handle on values. Thanks.
Click to expand...

Is this a local gun that you can physically examine?
If so, how are the mechanics? Timing good? Check for endshake?
Bore condition? Nice chambers?
In the condition you describe, it would be fulfilling range use in my book. So, the mechanics are a premium consideration.
That beats finish issues, assuming you’re talking wear and not pitting.

Looking at it another way, what does that money get you in the new-retail market? That price is in line with a new production S&W model 29 (yeah, I know…. apples and oranges) that will lose value the moment you walk out the door with it.
Some guys want a shiny new gun, no matter what.
Some guys want a classic that is only available in a small fixed number, even if it’s not perfect.
 
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Hey guys, thanks for the info. I wasn't sure if it was appropriate to post here on this issue, but it sure is helpful. I don't think I'm getting the gun because the FFL seller has an issue with sales to CA (even though I have my CA dealers license and it's 100% legal) so we'll see.
 
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