.38 S&W Double action 3rd Model.

[wvmanchu]

Top break 5 shot. Original hard rubber grips. 6 inch barrel, finish appears to be original. Belongs to a buddy, if I can convince him to sell, whats a good price? Serial #2196xx wast told to look out for fakes but appears to be the real deal. Would like to Know when it shipped if any one has that info, plan on eventually getting it lettered.

 

[glowe]

That is actually a 38 Safety Hammerless, Fourth Model. The serial number puts this revolver at the very end of the Fourth Model production. The Fifth Model has a forged front sight, instead of the pinned sight your pictures show. The Fourth Model was manufactured from 1898 to 1907, with just over 100,000 made. I would guess it shipped 1908-1909.

This Safety is in excellent condition as I can glean from your pictures and the 6" barrel is quite desirable and worth a premium. As for value, I would only guess at something in excess of $600-$700 is fair. You will not see another specimen in this condition very often, so it would be a great example to fill a hole in any collector's gun safe.