I know of a Triple Lock that contains a star indicating refinishing or at least a trip back to Smith & Wesson for one reason or another. The factory letter indicates that it was returned twice for "rework" or "refinishing". The letter does not indicate for what reason the revolver was returned. Presumably, these dates are stamped under the grips.
The present configuration is a Target Model. Presumably, the "rework" in the late '40's or early '50's was to convert to Target Model configuration. But this cannot be proven...
So, value? In my opinion, a real conundrum!!!
Should this be valued as a Target Model, more in line with this being standard configuration, or even knocking a considerable amount off due to the potential for this being a non factory after market alteration?
Since it cannot be proven that alteration to Target configuration occurred at the factory, only surmised, I might be inclined to value it as the last of the three options.
Thoughts?
The present configuration is a Target Model. Presumably, the "rework" in the late '40's or early '50's was to convert to Target Model configuration. But this cannot be proven...
So, value? In my opinion, a real conundrum!!!
Should this be valued as a Target Model, more in line with this being standard configuration, or even knocking a considerable amount off due to the potential for this being a non factory after market alteration?
Since it cannot be proven that alteration to Target configuration occurred at the factory, only surmised, I might be inclined to value it as the last of the three options.
Thoughts?