Help ID Pre-War S&W .38

rcoleman1963 · #1 03-26-2012, 09:16 AM

I would like to know if anyone can identify this gun.
Following is on the top of the barrell. SN = 43357
"Smith & Wesson Springfield Mass. U.S.A. Pat'D REBY"
"20 77 Dec '18 77 May 11. 80 Sept. 11.83 Oct. 2. 83 TWO AUC 4.85"

bobsdad · #2 03-26-2012, 09:33 AM

From the s/n and top latch configuration, this appears to be a 3rd model .38 S&W Safety Hammerless (New Departure). Probably made early in the 3rd model production period around 1890-91.

rcoleman1963 · #3 03-26-2012, 11:38 AM

I was thinking maybe even older since it does not have the S&W logo engraved on the right hand side of the gun.