Welcome from Virginia
Welcome to the Forum from Virginia. Sounds like you may have a nice one on tap. The Model 27 is clearly one of the finest examples of "old-time" S&W craftsmanship and quality.
Some tips before you buy, check the serial number, if 1979 it should have a letter N prefix. Also recheck the barrel length measured correctly as the 5" bbl was discontinued in 1979. Check the type of front sight (Patridge, red insert ramp, pinned etc.). Check the type of stocks (Goncalo Alves targets became standard the following year (1980) IIRC.).
Check the frame underneath the stocks for factory rework stamps and dates that may indicate a refinish or barrel change, etc.
In high ORIGINAL condition (98%) but without any accessories (box, case, docs, tools) or documented provenance, I would say $1100 to $1200, but to me that would be an "out-the-door" price. If you are dealing with a local private sale then fine, but if you are on-line and have to pay buyers premium, shipping, FFL transfer fees, taxes, etc. then you'll need to adjust accordingly.
In have 3 Model 27 revolvers as shown below, a "Pre Model 27" with a S prefix serial number, 6-1/2" blue, shipped 10-16-1952, a 3-1/2" blue with presentation stocks that shipped 4-5-1977, and a 6" Nickel that shipped 5-8-1980.
If you can please post pictures, but do not post links to any active sale site, as that is a no-no on the Forum.
Good luck and let us know if we can assist you in spending your money.....we are also known as "enablers" as well as collecotrs, accumulators of fine S&W guns.
