581 and European proofs-distractor?

[1sg]

Friend of mine has S&W Model 581 with several European proof marks (Liege proof; Inspector and Date Code). All marks are well crafted, small and located unobtrusively on the underlug. Please note there are no import marks. This was acquired from a soldier who was stationed in Europe and presumably he brought it back into the states. The revolver is in wonderful condition with no noticeable bluing loss. So I’m wondering what, if any impact these proof marks have on value / desirability. Thoughts? Thanks…

 

[Ameshawki]

Doesn't bother me in the slightest, if anything it adds to the gun's story. While the 581 isn't super common I'm not sure I'd call it a collector's item.

 

[Walter Rego]

This subject comes up occasionally. An oft repeated statement is that foreign proofmarks add value if you are the seller, and take away value if you are the buyer.

I think that is overly simplistic. I have a model 31-1 made in 1986 that is as close to new in the box as you are likely to find. It bears Liege proofmarks and the European importer/distributor WISCHO markings. Most of the marks are on the barrel flat above the recoil rod and the others are tiny and unobtrusive. My guess is also that it was purchased by a GI stationed in Europe somewhere and came back in his personal belongings.

As far as I am concerned, the overall condition of the gun and the relative rarity are more important. I'd love to have a Model 581 and the markings wouldn't affect the value one way or another. I see them as an interesting part of the guns history.

However.... when we are talking about the horribly defacing and huge importer stamps that have been added to tens of thousands of imported military arms since the early to mid-1980's, that's a different story. there are now two tiers regarding pricing, pre-import marked and post-import marked with the guns that came in prior to the GCA 1968 commanding premium prices all other things being equal.

Here are the markings on my S&W 31-1. I'll bet the Model 581 is marked similarly. The additional marks are the Liege "Flaming bomb" style stamp on the back of the cylinder and bottom of the frame forward of the triggerguard. All major parts had to be stamped with that proofmark.

 

[1sg]

Walter: much appreciate your insights; thanks. Yes, the proof marks are similar. Incidentally, while researching the 581 I stumbled across a definitive list of Liege Proof House Inspectors' Marks. It appears your 31 was proofed by François Croux…

 

[abbyonheyward]

I, too, own a 581 that has European stampings. Mine is not in high condition. I’ve pondered the same questions as the OP. Based solely on my opinions, I perceive that the stampings lower the value when compared to a similar gun in like condition without the stampings. How much lower? I guess it depends on the specific gun and the individuals who are buying and selling.

 

[Ameshawki]

I have an SP101 with multiple French proof marks. I like it, gives the gun character and is something different. I believe these were French railway police.

 

[44wheelman]

To me, a marginal increase of value, just because it’s less common.

If I saw 2 same model guns, one proofed (barring an import mark), and one not proofed….I would choose the gun in higher finish condition, smoother action, tighter lock up, better grips, etc… If still a wash, then the proofed gun.