3904 - Increasing Popularity?

SVT28

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Over the past few years of collecting Smith Semi's I've noticed a trend that 3904's are slowly rising in value, but still well short of what 3906's are going for. Just recently, a well known auction site had a hammer drop on a LNIB example with paper work for $900 including shipping.

This is the first time I've ever seen one of these sell for that price, while others in lesser condition are still selling less than $300. My question here is, is it because more 3904's were produced? If so, how many more do you think were produced compared to the scant 3906?

Or do you think that 3904's are just not as well known or spoken about and that's why we've seen prices all over the place? IMHO, there isn't a better value out there for what it is than the single stack 9mm 3904 with non target sites. Especially for right around $300-400...

Discuss

SVT28
 
I think the all stainless is still a draw for most. If I had a chance to buy a 3904 or 3906, the choice is easy for me, id take the 3904. A couple years ago I let a NIB 3904 go because I didn't want it at $700, haha oh well, that may be considered a mistake by some. I had a 3906, sold it, I just liked my 3913 better.
 
A couple of years ago I walked into my favorite LGS and saw a very nice 3906 for $425. I left without it. Overnight, rationalized that my 39-2 and 539 really needed its company. I went back and it was gone. I regretted my indecisiveness. Some months later I won an auction for a safe queen 3904 with box for $450. I was the only bidder. I like the 3094 because they are fewer than 3906s. But the black finish is delicate and shows wear easily. I think this is a main reason why the '06s are generally more desired and maybe why a pristine 3904 should be worth more than a pristine 3906.
 
Muzzleblast, thank you for your feedback. What resource did you use to find the production numbers for the 3904's?

I agree about the blued/black finish though, I would never daily carry a pristine one.

SVT28
 

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