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CORRECTION: .38 CAL NOT .32 CAL. As a novice with S&W, I was hoping to get some help on this piece. I believe the finish to be original since the fit and finish are exceptionally tight and no other indication of refinish to my lay eyes can be found. There is a "W" stamped next to the pin at the base of frame under the left grip, and the serial number is etched into the back side of the grips. No other markings are below the grips. I thought the top break release indicated this was a first model, but the serial number appears too high. Barrel length is also 3 1/4" not 3 1/2". I want to describe it appropriately when I place it for sale. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Welcome to the Forum. You have a 38 Safety Hammerless, Third Model. It would have shipped from the factory around 1897 - 1898. You just made the antique classification, since the last 38 Safety made before 1899 was serial number 119,900. There were over a quarter-million of all models made and there were around 70,000 Third Models manufactured. Overall, the 38 Safety was made from 1887 to 1940.

Without having it in hand, I would say the percent finish left is 85% - 95% with some rust.

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Gary
SWCA 2515