My looks exactly like the the black and white photo.
An actual photo of the gun is also attached. This was my Grandfathers, and I would like to know the date of manufacture.
It is a .38, with 4 inch barrel, serial number 347907. I know it is not worth much, a gunsmith friend just disassembled and reassembled the gun replacing only one part to make it safely operational. Although, I know better than to fire it with a modern bullet.

Attached Images

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Yours is a S&W .38 Double Action (DA) revolver, 4th Model. Indeed these are very common, with well over 500,000 made in 5 models. These do not have significant value unless in top condition. It uses .38 S&W ammunition, which remains available, albeit somewhat difficult to find. You should have no hesitation in shooting it with modern factory-loaded ammunition, which is loaded very lightly. In fact,the modern factory ballistics are a little less than the original black powder loadings.

Yours is from about 1896-97, and is therefore legally an antique (pre-1899), not a firearm. It is exempt from firearms laws in most jurisdictions. Just for reference the highest antique serial number for this model is 382,002.

Welcome to the Forum! DWalt has given you the data on your Grand Father's S&W .38 DA.
You are lucky to have this family heirloom cherish and pass on, and you can safely fire it if you desire. Ed.