455 HE 2nd model value

[Seaark1660]

Got a friend that inherited a 455 HE 2nd model that's been converted to 45 Auto. Last 5 in the caliber stamp crossed out and SA hand stamped next to the strike out. Locks up tight, and mechanically sound with blueing wear on the sharp edges and stag grips added. No pitting in the barrel, but the rifling looks shallow with sharp edges. Hasn't been fired in about 40 years and the hardened grease in the lockwork shows it.

Dummy me didn't take pictures of it to share.

Any good guesses in fair market price in the upside-down world we are currently in?

 

[delta-419]

Converted .455 To .45acp

The conversion to 45acp has reduced the value significantly for collectors, depending on the method used in the conversion process. ie.; shaving the recoil shield or mods to the cylinder face or other modifications. The thing to remember is that these cylinders were not heat treated as were the U. S. Army M1917s and 45acp may be somewhat of a pressure risk. In todays market, a value in MHO, would be in the $650-800 range, depending on how the mods were done. Hope this helps.

 

[22hipower]

Pictures might help with value estimate but I think delta-419 is probably about right. Most of these showed quite a bit of use and after two world wars and who knows what other service they've earned that wear. Some have interesting unit marks having been to Great Britain and/or Canada and/or Australia or other British controlled/allied areas. There is a very good research thread here with lots of information about these that you can probably find using the "search" button at the top of the page.

This one is unmolested and I paid $550 for it but that was eight or so years ago. Neat old guns especially if you have any history with it. This one once served with the 5th Military District of Australia and likely a few other interesting places. Wish it could talk.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

https://flic.kr/p/2n7RLzh https://www.flickr.com/photos/194934231@N03/

 

[S.B.]

The conversion to 45acp has reduced the value significantly for collectors, depending on the method used in the conversion process. ie.; shaving the recoil shield or mods to the cylinder face or other modifications. The thing to remember is that these cylinders were not heat treated as were the U. S. Army M1917s and 45acp may be somewhat of a pressure risk. In todays market, a value in MHO, would be in the $650-800 range, depending on how the mods were done. Hope this helps.

Considering the market value of more modern S&Ws today, I would guess your estimate is very conservative? Of course this all depends if you're buying or selling.
Steve

 

[Hondo44]

Without a photo the best we can do is give you a range, say $400 to $800.

Look closer with a magnifying glass at the SA stamp on the barrel. It should be AR for 45 auto rim. That's safe to shoot in that revolver, but not 45 ACP.

Is there a serial # on the rear face of the cyl? If not it's been shaved for the AR rim to clear with proper headspace.

If the chamber mouths have only been recessed (slightly counter bored) that's the best possible way to convert because you can still safely shoot 455 Mk! and Mk II ammo.

 

[StrawHat]

…Look closer with a magnifying glass at the SA stamp on the barrel. It should be AR for 45 auto rim. That's safe to shoot in that revolver, but not 45 ACP…

Jim is correct. The 45 ACP is proof round pressure for these revolvers. ALL 455 HE
's were made prior to 1917 when the Army insisted the Model 1917 have heat treated cylinders.

Kevin

 

[Seaark1660]

Without a photo the best we can do is give you a range, say $400 to $800.

Look closer with a magnifying glass at the SA stamp on the barrel. It should be AR for 45 auto rim. That's safe to shoot in that revolver, but not 45 ACP.

Is there a serial # on the rear face of the cyl? If not it's been shaved for the AR rim to clear with proper headspace.

If the chamber mouths have only been recessed (slightly counter bored) that's the best possible way to convert because you can still safely shoot 455 Mk! and Mk II ammo.

It's stamped SA... Thought it might shed light on who did the conversion as the choice of SA seemed odd. Back of cylinder is machined down for auto rim or moon clips. I'm familiar with the conversion and some of the questionable results thereafter.

My thought was that 650-800 range would be appropriate for the condition and conversion to 45 auto by the mystery gunsmith.

 

[Hondo44]

It's stamped SA... Thought it might shed light on who did the conversion as the choice of SA seemed odd. Back of cylinder is machined down for auto rim or moon clips. I'm familiar with the conversion and some of the questionable results thereafter.

My thought was that 650-800 range would be appropriate for the condition and conversion to 45 auto by the mystery gunsmith.

I can only speculate the gunsmith meant 45 Semi Auto with the 45 SA stamp. Never seen that before. Not the way I would have stamped it but there's a first time for everything.