I am currently talking to a LGS about a 38/44. The asking price is $899, but here is my problem. The serial # is 431XXX with a star. They say that it is about 75-80%. Without wasting my time, should I consider it based on the rework(?) The shop is in another city within the metropolitan area. Any thoughts? Thanks
Fred

I think you added an extra X to the SN. 431xx would be from around 1934. Also, is it a .38/44 HD or a .38/44 Outdoorsman (adjustable sights)? Makes a BIG difference in value. Whatever you do, always check to see if a .357 case will chamber completely. If so, chambers have been lengthened outside the factory.

Personally I'd pull the stocks off and see what date that star was put on the gun. I think that price could be a-ok of it's a nice pre war refinish, maybe tuned up, or factory modified. If the date of work falls in the range of the SWHF documents the chance of finding out who owned it is in my opinion a bonus. In the future I believe that such documentation will make guns that were previously overlooked real treasures.

It is an HD. I don't know if they will let me pull the grips to get that info.

If you're are serious about the purchase, get them to pull the stocks. If they won't, walk away. At that kind of money you have a right to see under the grips.

I recently laid down what was to me, a big chunk of change, for a collectable S&W... I wanted to see under the grips. After doing my research here, I went back to the shop & the clerk removed the grips for my inspection.

__________________
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Reserve Officer 9yrs

I agree. If you are willing to pay that amount (and without seeing the gun, I can't say if it's worth it or not), they should be willing to remove the stocks to see if there is a factory service date, such as 3.48 (March 1948) on the lower grip strap. You can also see if the grip SN matches that of the frame at the same time. You should also check that all five other SNs match and that the chambers have not been lengthened. If they won't oblige you, walk away.

Keep in mind that if there is evidence the gun was returned to S&W, it will not indicate what work has been done - it could be anything.