Bill, It could be one of several different S&W models. Does it have a visible hammer? If so,it could be a .38 Double Action 3rd Model, made about 1888-90, or if it has no visible hammer ( hammerless model) it could be a .38 Safety 4th model, made about 1900, or so. So, which model do you have? A factory historical letter ($50 cost) can tell you when it was shipped, to whom & where. Post a picture, if possible. Ed.