The .32-20 Hand Ejector Thread

[IMC]

Wow, what a great S&W resource. I have just discovered this site and this is a first post, so please forgive any mistakes I may make regarding protocol and etiquette.

I have a nice old 32/20 hand ejector revolver and have several questions. The revolver is blued, has a round butt, hard rubber grips, has S & W logos on both grips and right side of frame, the barrel is marked "32 Winchester Ctg." on the left side and is 5" long. The serial # is 15XXX and the last patent date on the barrel is Dec. 17, '01. This is a nice old revolver in tight, completely original condition -- perhaps fired fewer than 10 or 15 times -- ownership believed always in the same family.

(1) From the low serial number and last patent date of 1901, I would guess this is an early revolver, maybe the original or first variation -- your thoughts anyone?

(2) The bluing on the frame and cylinder is in pretty nice condition for the age, but the barrel is a fairly uniform brownish/grey color -- can anyone offer an explanation for this difference (it looks sort of like the barrel finish "aged" differently)?

(3) From the above information, can anyone offer some general idea of what this revolver might be worth in today's market (complete with original flap type leather holster)?

(4) Any one interested in purchasing this one?

Thanks for any information you might provide and for this great S & W website.

IMC