1917 update: pics in post 12

[Pocketrocket]

Hi folks need some help. I wasn't looking for one of these but it showed up at my LGS. It's a US Army model 1917. I've never seen one before but the fixed sight big bore is interesting. It's in decent condition for it's age, maybe 75% bluing, all numbers match, serial number 22047 so I think maybe 1917. I've never thought about a revolver in an auto caliber but it makes sense for the war. They are asking $800. Only took a picture of the butt unfortunately.
Anything I should know, and is the price in line?

 

[Hondo44]

If the barrel is roll marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" its likely original and that's not a bad price. Hard to say for sure without a photo. At least it still has it's lanyard swivel.

This website indicates 1918 for that serial #:
U.S. Military Dates of Manufacture

 

[Muley Gil]

We need more pictures to give you an idea of its value.

Right now, it's like trying to give you the value of a Corvette using only a picture of the VIN plate.

Condition, condition, condition!!!

 

[Pocketrocket]

.

Ok thanks guys. I'll get more pictures tomorrow.

Hondo- it is marked United States Property, and that link doesn't work for me
Muley- a friend just found a 65 427 4sp in a barn today

 

[Muley Gil]

Ok thanks guys. I'll get more pictures tomorrow.

Hondo- it is marked United States Property, and that link doesn't work for me
Muley- a friend just found a 65 427 4sp in a barn today

Did it go to a page like this?

https://smith-wessonforum.com/redirect-to/?redirect=https://oldguns.net/sn_php/mildateslookup.php

If it does, click in the middle.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

It was made in February 1918. I'm a little jaded by the blowup in values for these guns. Just a few years ago, it would sell in the $500 range. I just don't see it make $800 unless it is in Very Good condition.

 

[Truckman]

Did it go to a page like this?

https://smith-wessonforum.com/redirect-to/?redirect=https://oldguns.net/sn_php/mildateslookup.php

If it does, click in the middle.

Gil, that link is a blank page with the heading:

U.S. MILITARY DATES OF MANUFACTURE

...Ben

 

[JH1951]

As with most older pieces, condition determines value and price. More pictures will help you get a better handle on what a fair price may be for the one you are looking at. Prices on 1917's have been going up, and the ones in excellent condition are leading the pack. $800. may or may not be a bad price - depending on condition. In my opinion, a functional beater may go for $400., and a really beautiful piece may change hands around $3000. That's quite a spread, but that's the impact that condition has on prices. I also suggest that you investigate 'how to detect a refinish'. Over the last five years or so I have seen many 1917's that were refinished command high prices. In my opinion a refinish, even a nice job, decreases a 1917 value by about 50%. There are a couple I've seen sold recently that are likely to be generating a case of deep buyer's remorse.
Bottom line, the 1917 S&W is a really sweet piece and will provide unlimited enjoyment at the range. Do a bit of homework so that whatever you decide to invest is a reasonable value. Buy the best condition that you can afford.

 

[Muley Gil]

Gil, that link is a blank page with the heading:...Ben

Try this link:

U.S. Military Dates of Manufacture

The next link is to other US military firearms:

U.S. Military Dates of Manufacture

 

[Truckman]

Those two work, Gil, thanks......Ben

 

[OutAtTheEdge]

Try this link:

U.S. Military Dates of Manufacture

The next link is to other US military firearms:

U.S. Military Dates of Manufacture

Aaaaand, there's another bookmark in my "Gun Stuff" folder. Thanks!

 

[Pocketrocket]

Pictures

Ok got some more pictures. Looks better than I remember.
Serial number pencilled in on right grip?
I think I might just go ahead and buy this one.

 

[chiefdave]

From the roll marks and side plate fit I'd say original finish. The early 1917's with the grooved hammer sides bring a premium. I would be a buyer at that price.

 

[Retired W4]

Inspected by Mr. Gilbert H. Stewart, 30 SEP, 1914-1 APR, 1918. He was promoted to Brig. General on 16 NOV, 1940.

 

[JH1951]

From what I can see $800. is right in the ballpark.
As mentioned, it does not seem to be refinished, looks decent, and has the earlier features. If I was in the market for one this could be a decent one to pick up. See if they will do $800. OTD and get it done.
Then pick up some of the 1/2 moon clips that are being offered for sale on the Forum classifieds. Good ones are not as easy to find as they once were.

 

[Hondo44]

That's a keeper. Don't wait too long!

 

[Muley Gil]

As noted, it is an early model with the concave grips and grooved hammer, plus the grips number.

Buy it!