44 Magnum Revolver Help

[Manste53]

I have a 44 magnum which I believe is a Model 29. I have done quite a bit of research but cant seem to definitively nail it. The serial number is S181416 and there is no model number stamped on it. It has a 4" barrel. I have included some pics. The pistol has sat in my safe for about 30 years with only occasional cleaning - no firing. In like new condition. Can someone help me with model and market price?
Pics link:
http://i1197.photobucket.com/albums/aa425/SRMankus/Smith and Wesson/IMG_2998.jpg

 

[gmborkovic]

move your thread down one to 1961. You will get answers. Your gun is far from an antique.

 

[DCWilson]

Welcome to the forum. A moderator will move your thread to the proper section. Your gun was produced before the introduction of model numbers, but it's OK to call it a Pre-29 because the .44 Magnum received the Model 29 designation not long after this one was made.

Your revolver was manufactured somewhere between 1955 and 1957. It can be further classified as a four-screw Pre-29 because of the absence of a top sideplate screw. (That screw was eliminated as a production feature in 1955.)

Four inch barrels are always in demand on Pre-29s. Your gun also has "coke" grips, which are the basic S&W target grip with a little more contouring (like a Coke bottle, some say) and a larger checking field.

The gun shows a turn ring and some light muzzle wear, but it's probably to be rated at 95% or a little more in terms of preserved finish. I would guess it would be easy to get $1500 from anyone for that revolver, and some would pay $2000. You'll get better value info from people who follow sales of these guns more closely than I do.

 

[Doc44]

You have a 44 Magnum (Pre-Model 29, 4-screw frame) that dates to the first half of 1958. It looks to be in good shape with the correct stocks. I would value your 44 Magnum at around $1800 to $2000.

Bill

 

[Manste53]

Thank you

Thank you for the feedback!

 

[gmborkovic]

Bill, you are spot on. Saw one sell this wknd in Pompano for $2000.
Little bit earlier but still a nice gun.

 

[boykinlp]

The serial number is S181416 and there is no model number stamped on it.

Just for reference, I have one serial numbered about 1300 earlier that shipped 4/1958. You have a nice revolver BTW.

 

[DWalt]

The stated SN of the last known 5-screw is S176069. My list indicates yours probably shipped sometime in mid to late 1958. Model numbering allegedly began around S 183xxx, but I don't know exactly.